In a time when families are broken down, blended up and statistically you are more likely to be missing a solid father figure in your life, we decided to ask some of our friends who we think make great dads, spiritually, biologically, to the church, and to the student generation, to write to you. So just in case your dad never got to speak into your life in the way you'd hoped, here's a postcard from dad to you.
I hope you’re enjoying yourself. Are you doing any studying, been to any lectures, or even walked passed the library, much less actually go in it? No? Thought so. Well it’s only your choices now - you’re too old for me to tell you off or try and guilt you into things and that never worked anyway! Your mother says ‘hi’ and that she loves you, and is muttering something about making sure you eat enough fruit and vegetables.
Listen, it won’t be until much later in life that I’ll tell you something that on reflection, you really need to know now: don’t be anything less than who God is calling you to be. Your world is full of people desperately seeking worth and affirmation in the eyes of others. You don’t need to do that because you’ve already got all the love and approval you could ever need from God. And Jesus proves it. Live for him and care much less than your peers about what other people think of you. You won’t like the same things as they do and so you may feel a little bit on the edge, even lonely sometimes. Don’t be jealous though, of what they do - consider the outcomes of their choices and judge for yourself - is that really better than living God’s way?
Looking back I wish we’d talked more about sex. I always found it so awkward and I’m sorry for that now. You’re a red-blooded male and that’s how God made you. That drive, that energy, that love will bond you to the woman God has for you when the time is right. Don’t be impatient and rush ahead of God’s schedule. I saw some good looking girls when I dropped you off, and I know myself how attractive getting involved with someone who doesn’t share your faith can be - it’s exciting, thrilling even. I could tell you some stories! I wish I had now, but my generation didn’t talk about such things and now we’ve left you lot a terrible, confused legacy. G.K. Chesterton said that, “Every man who knocks on the door of a brothel is looking for God.” I promise you this: ungodly sex will never satisfy you and actually only make you feel very much worse. Oh the lies you guys are faced with these days! This is one of the biggest of the lot. When you feel tempted use that craving as a prayer, redirected to Jesus. He’ll help you by his Holy Spirit. Be wise! Be brave!
You see? We should have talked much more. Let’s do that when you come home for the holidays, ok?
I love you so much, I’m so proud of you, and I pray for you every day, Your Dad x
Read more postcards from my dad here: Paul W, John, Steve C, David, Steve, Andy, Paul H, Mark C, Keith, Philip, Pete, Paul B, Mark H, Richard, Andy G
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