On this day appointed by the Lord to mark your birth, my heart overflows with thanksgiving to God, who, in His wisdom, joined our paths and set you as a watchman, a shepherd, and a spiritual father over my life.
As it is written, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” Even so, I testify that I have known no small blessing in being taught the truth by your lips and having it modeled before my eyes.
You have not only spoken the Word, but you have lived it, line upon line, precept upon precept, showing me what it means to fear God, to love righteousness, and to endure with patience and humility.
In a world where many look out only for their own interests. Where Greed has overtaken the hearts of men, and the self is at the center, you have shown me the opposite of what servanthood means, sir.
The Lord has used you as a pillar and a refuge in seasons when my steps were unsteady. Like Paul to Timothy, you have exhorted, corrected, encouraged, and strengthened me, not with harshness, but with a spirit of gentleness and faith.
Through your counsel, I have learned that wisdom cries aloud, and through your prayers, I have seen that the fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
Today I give thanks to God for the years He has granted you, for the oil of gladness upon your head, and for the mantle of grace that rests upon your life.
May the Lord who called you be faithful to complete every word He has spoken concerning you. May He renew your strength as the eagle’s, enlarge your influence for His glory, and cause your latter days to be greater than the former.
As it is written, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.” So may you continue to flourish, bearing fruit in season, your leaf never withering, as generations yet unborn rise and call you blessed.
I honor you today, my pastor, and I bless the Lord for your life. May your days be long upon the land the Lord has given you, and may your joy be complete as you behold the fruit of your labor in the sons and daughters you have raised in the faith.
Happy and blessed birthday.
With love, gratitude, and reverence unto God.
5 months ago