WELL DONE, SON!

    OK, I'll admit it. I'm a typical parent, proud of my kids. With that disclaimer, hear me out.
    Last week Daniel invited me to read a doctrinal position statement and reflection paper he had written about his sense of call to pastoral ministry. And I have Dan's permission to share (t)his story.
    I was impressed by the quality of his work. More than that, I was deeply pleased by who he is becoming. I found myself saying, "Well done! I'm proud of you."
    Recalling the depth of my emotion and complete sense of satisfaction the next morning, I couldn't help reflecting on similar words spoken at our Lord's baptism. Powerful words of affirmation which launched three years of exhausting, intense, sacrificial ministry, "This is my son whom I love, with whom I am well pleased." (Mt. 3:17) In that moment I realized there is something in that event I had missed. Emotionally.
    The joy of the Father.
    That day I experienced a father's joy in a new way. Not that Dan was writing for me or to impress me. It came out of who he is: his mind and heart and character. They were his words. His thoughts. Yet they resonate with who I am, what I value, what I believe. I sense a oneness, a unity.
    If my son can bring me such joy can I not bring even greater joy to my Heavenly Father when my heart becomes aligned with his? Not from striving for it to be so, or trying harder. Not by dint of determination and discipline. Rather by simply enjoying what he enjoys. Loving what he loves.
    When I asked Daniel to read this he admitted it felt a bit awkward to receive public recognition. Sometimes I too find it hard to receive (believe?) my Heavenly Father's affirmation. Can I now freely receive his commendation? Without reading my sense of inadequacy into his joy? Without the pressure of feeling I should have done more?
    Today he is saying, "You are my daughter/son whom I love." Will you hear him?