Two years ago today, my children were born. Sunny recalls that day on her blog. I suppose it was the most beautiful day of my life. I honestly can’t remember what our lives were like before our kids were born. Today I write in honor of Abby Kate and Joshua.

Abby Kate, you make me so proud. People have started calling you a daddy’s girl and that makes me proud. You are so fiercely independent and I have to admit, that makes me very proud. I doubt you’ll ever be a crowd follower. You’re so content to do your own thing; in fact, that’s the only time you’re truly content. You don’t let your guard down easily, and I’m thankful for that, too. You level others with a discerning glare that reminds me of my father. Again, that makes me proud. But you are also so warm, so loving, so tender. To those of us who’ve earned your trust, you’re the sweetest, most cuddly little girl in the world. I pray you’ll always be discerning in your relationships. As your father, it’s my prerogative to want this for you. But I hope you’ll also continue to love passionately from the deep places of your heart. I hope you fall deeply and madly in love with the One who is pursuing you, even now, with His love. Size Him up, measure Him with your own discernment and see if He is lacking. And when you’re sure, love Him and never let go. That’s my prayer for you, my Daddy’s girl.

Joshua, I get this feeling inside when I think about you and I suppose I’ll never be able to describe it. You are my son. And something wells up inside of me at that thought: something proud, something sure. The bond we share sustains me. I know how much you look up to me and I know I’m unworthy of your devotion. But I’m your hero nonetheless and even though I’m destined to fail in this impossible role, I want to try — desperately, with all of my being — to be the kind of example you deserve. I know someday you’ll realize that I’m invincible, that I don’t always make all my shots, that I don’t always have all the answers, that I sometimes say one thing and do another. And that’s my great fear in all of this. But I’m praying that you’ll see past my shortcomings to see Christ living in me. May He be your hero, son. He’ll never leave you, never forsake you. I look forward to the day when our relationship is made complete; on the day when you become not only my son, but also my brother in Christ. That’s my prayer for you, my little man.

Father, thank you for Abby Kate and Joshua and the blessing they are to my life. May you bless them with many years of life here. May their lives be a blessing to You.