“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV)
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:18 ESV)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9 NKJV)
Here’s a question to ponder…
…What advantage is there if I gain the whole world (succeeds in my private endeavors) but lose my own family?
I had the privilege to partner with a wonderful woman to raise four phenomenal children. They are all adults living their own lives now. In raising them, I loved them. I did my best to provide for them. I worked hard to transfer to them the beliefs and values that I thought were essential to life and eternity. And I attempted to be the best dad that I could be. Overall, I think I did OK.
With that said, while I did the best I knew how to do, with what I have learned over the years, had I known then what I know now, I could have done better. But honestly, I have no regrets. There is however one thing that jumps out at me.
Looking back, if there is one thing that I would have done differently it would have been to have taken the time to truly “know” each of them individually. Without realizing it, I was spending more of my time trying to mold them into an image I had of what it meant to be a “good christian” than I did partnering with my heavenly Father to help them become who he created them to be. Unintentionally, I was attempting to mold them into my image rather than equip them to grow into the image and likeness of their Creator. Each one was “fearfully and wonderfully made” and my role was intended to be to guide them into the discovery of who and what that meant for each of them. I believe this blind spot opened the door for division.
I love all of my children deeply, and desire to have close relationships with each of them. Entering into 2025 I had wonderful relationships with two of my adult children. The other two were another story. Perhaps without realizing it I conveyed more religion (rules and expectations) than I did relationships (loving guidance). Perhaps it had nothing to do with me. At this point I don’t know. What I do know is that I look forward to the day in which we are once again united.
I have been praying for my reconciliation with two of my children for quite some time. As I was approaching this current year of breakthrough I placed this at the top of the list. When I received my first breakthrough (the mini-home on wheels) I was thrilled, but at the same time disheartened that it wasn’t a breakthrough in the area of relationships. What I didn’t realize at that moment was that the next breakthrough was just around the corner.
After about 7 years of separation I was able to reconnect with my daughter and grandson. What a wonderful breakthrough! Not having a relationship with my daughter had left a large hole in my heart. Having that hole filled once again has brought so much joy that words are unable to express it. This also came with the opportunity to spend time with my grandson. Beginning to rebuild a relationship with my grandson is such a blessing. He is now 15. The last time that I had any contact with him prior to this was when he was 7.
At the time of writing this I have been able to visit them twice. Both times went very well. We have also started an ongoing conversation online that means the world to me. We are friends on social media and are getting to know each other all over again. Praise the Lord for Jubilee! I worship the God of Breakthroughs! This time around I am focusing on getting to know them. I will always be ready with an answer when they ask about the hope that I have in Jesus. I will do my best to live as a godly example. However, rather than trying to mold, correct, or change them, I am simply trying to get to know them. I will leave the rest up to God.
I will continue praying and believing for reconciliation with my son.
What are you praying and believing for?
I believe that your breakthrough is at your fingertips!