Sunday, May 07, 2006

May 07

Launching a Son

Then Moses called for Joshua….


Deuteronomy 31:7 (NLT)



I feel I’m passing the baton to the next generation. Just like Moses did.

Moses made some mistakes in life (who hasn’t) and he didn't get to go with this new generation of Israelites—the ones who would actually enter and possess the Promised Land. Moses was cool: he didn’t have a pity party over his exclusion, he trusted God and did his duty. He handed control over to Joshua; he blessed Joshua; he graciously faded from view.

This resonates deep within. You see, my son has turned 18. He heads off to college this fall. Soon he will be out on his own and, like it or not, I will fade from view.

I see my need to be more like Moses. I need to do my duty to the very end. My son needs my encouragement, as well as my well-intended advice. Yes, he needs my blessing, but he also needs me to let go. While I fade from view, he must press on. My words, our common memories, these will go with him ... and God will be with him, I have no doubt about that. It will be enough….


Lord, help me encourage my son. Give me good words for him. Give him courage and strength and the knowledge You are with him. Let it be enough. Amen.