Our oldest child, Carson, turns 18 years today. 

Birthdays represent many things. A time of reflection. A time to look ahead. 

Lots of big events happen this year. She’s going to vote in her first presidential election. She’ll graduate from high school and head to college. She’ll move out of our home and begin a life on her own. It’s a big year for Carson (and a tough one on her parents). 

So this birthday is “bigger” than most. It represents adventure for Carson. It represents a bit of melancholy for the rest of the family.  Carson is growing up. 

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 1 Corinthians 13:11

So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22

My prayer today and for the next year will be for Carson to continue to grow and mature in her faith and relationship with Jesus. She’ll be exposed to the world in new, challenging ways- and I pray that she continues to keep Jesus first in her life…and her faith in focus. 

Carson has always been a great kid…and she’s become an incredible young woman. 

Today let’s pray for all the children in our lives. Prayers for strength, comfort and wisdom. They deserve it (and need it). 

Stop and think about a couple of children in your circle- and pray for them. 

And as always, please let me know how I may pray for you. 

God bless.