We are going to take a break today from our Positive Outlook theme to honor my son, Matt. As I write this, he is in his second year of his doctorate program at Oxford – AND begins his fellowship this next term. Yes, I am proud of his academic exploits, but more impressed with the man himself. I think it all began years ago, when instead of one of the neighbors (whose son he played with) commented not on what a rascal he was, but what a “straight arrow” he was. Certainly, not what my mom heard about me from the neighbors!

Beside staying out of trouble during his earlier years, a couple of events really stick out in my mind about my own personal relationship with Matt. I knew he always had a depth, spiritually, but there was a Sunday that he went down to the alter and prayed with deep intensity and tears. God urged me to go down and pray with him. He only said a few words, but the communication was deeper than words can express. I knew that even though he played in the worship band and his heart was pure, there was a deep sense of conviction of his humanity and what that was like standing before a sovereign God. As I embraced him, prayed and watched him interact with the Spirit, I could not sense anything but peace and joy for him as I knew what he would feel afterwards. Great moment – unbelievable memory.

Another time was when he and I talked about the early stages of his relationship with Tori. Matt had chosen not to date in High School, so this was new territory, especially since she had been a long-term friend of his and another friend. As we sat on the porch swing and talked, he began to question aspects of their relationship – especially what was right, wrong, etc. We ended the discussion with how important it was to take the necessary time and prayer to allow God to work in their lives and ensure it was the right relationship for them both. In many was there was that same intensity I saw when I prayed with him a year or two earlier. It was serious business and he knew it. Another moment, another memory I will not forget.

And, my last unforgettable memory was just a year or so ago while visiting C. S. Lewis’ home on Oxford. There is a sign outside of the house that says to keep off their grounds if you are not in a tour. Since we tried and never received an answer, we just went so I could show him the outside of the house and the pond where Lewis and Tolkien used to sit and smoke their cigars. I wanted him to see a certain part of the yard where Lewis and his wife used to sit and talk, but it required walking where we shouldn’t! Well, my son chastised me for “going too far.” I know, out of the mouths of children we will learn! He was right again and created an unforgettable memory. He apologized but I told him there was no need to – he was right, I was wrong!

So, Matt, on your birthday I don’t just thank you for these three memories, I thank you for the man you have and will become. Keep up your diligence and search for excellence in the field God has called you to. You will be fine and I know you know that because we have often discussed how God orders your steps. I know He will continue to do so.

Keep up the good work.

Love Dad