Sammy

Last night our nephew Samuel was surprised with a ceremony celebrating his 13th birthday.  It was a really neat evening with lots of prayers and advice concerning Sam becoming a man, more specifically, a man of God. 

This is his Daddy, Aaron.  He's telling him exactly why

we are all here at the church waiting for him to come in.

This is Papaw David.  He read a letter he had written about Sam

being a miracle and about how he has always prayed for him

and that he always will. (and lots of other stuff too)

This is Papaw Wayne.  He also told Sam how much he loved him and that

he should always follow God's word as life begins to change for him.  He said he'd always be there for him no matter when, no matter where, and no matter what.

Uncle Eric told Sam that true manhood

and being Christlike are one in the same.  And that the best decision he's ever made in is life is to follow Christ.  He also said that if he lived another thousand years the one thing he'd want to do is to know Christ more and more everyday.

Uncle Kasey talked about the questions for God that Sam would have as he is becoming a man, he told him that the bible tells us that all you really need to know is to follow and obey what God says. 

Aaron then read a letter he had written for Sam.  And I would give you all details but we were all crying by this point and I can't really remember the words.  But it was very Daddy'ish and sincere. This guy loves his Sammy and wants him to hear from God in his life even more than he has as our pastor.  He wants people to be led by Sam's ministry and he wants him to be blessed in all God has for him as a man.

Tears...ugh.

Prayer

A special Gift.  A sword!! 

The peacemaker.

Family of 5...soon to be 6. (we're waiting for you baby Gracey)

Man of God

Signing a covenant

Sammy & his Daddy

Sammy & his Mommy

Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter:  Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.  Ecclesiastes 12:13