Happy Birthday, Steve! 19 on the 8th

My thirdborn is 19 today.

Here are 19 things I love, admire, and appreciate about him.

1. He has a passion for the Lord Jesus.
2. He loves to serve the Body of Christ.
3. He shows that love in myriad ways (see #4-18).
4. He walks and talks daily with God through His Word, the Bible .
5. He loves to read theology but not for the sake of head knowledge, but to help him
keep watch over his heart.
6. He always has a reason for the Hope that is in him. (If he'd been a girl, which I was sure while carrying him--no sonograms to prove otherwise, just a hunch--I was going to name him Hope.)
7. He can articulate himself well in speaking, in writing, and in nonverbal communication.
8. He prays diligently for people.
9. He is discerning.
10 He doesn't take himself too seriously, a noticeable trait through his often self-deprecating humor.
11. He uses his musical gifts on the drums at church and at camp.
12. He takes jobs no one else wants, especially guys--like teaching preschool phys ed.
13. He does what is asked of him, but usually takes the initiative.
14. He takes good care of his possessions.
15. He is a careful manager of his own finances.
16. He treats everyone with respect.
17. He puts people at ease with his smile and conversation.
18. He's a good listener.
19. He's a precious human being.

Stephen, I am so glad you're ours. And I'm so glad you're home from camp. I have missed you, son. Happy birthday .To God be the glory for these wonderful 19 years.