Today my son – H.B. Charles, III –  turns 13-years-old.

I remember the night he was born, as if it were yesterday.

Crystal had not been feeling well for several days. The doctor put her on bed rest.

That Friday, I was scheduled to preach in Atlanta. I didn’t want to go. But Crystal and her mom urged me to go.

I was only to be gone for 24 hours. Crystal’s mom was going to stay with her. And Crystal was not due for another 6-7 weeks. What’s the worst that could happen?

Of course, H.B. was born that night, while I was away. By the time I made it home, early that next morning, he had slipped under four pounds. But the Lord is faithful!

I praise God for how I have watched my son grow and develop over the years.

The night Shiloh voted to extend a call for me to be its new pastor, H.B. cried all night. He knew that I had not made a decision. And he begged me to tell them to find someone else for several days.

I was concerned that coming here would have a negative impact on my children. But as it turns out, the children have adjusted better than their parents!

And I am so excited about the front-row seat I have had to watch my son grow up.

Well, maybe.

We are now at the point where he has started to steal my clothes; specifically, my socks, for some reason

. He is getting closer to beating me in basketball. And he constantly thinks he is actually H.B. Charles Jr.

But I praise God for what I see the Lord doing in his life.

His personality has blossomed.

He has made new friends.

He has fallen in love with our new church home.

He enjoys serving.

He cares for his mom and sisters when I am away.

And, most importantly, he trusted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior last year. I also had the wonderful privilege of baptizing my son and daughter last summer.

I cannot believe it has been 13 years. But I am so proud of my son. I love him. And I expect great things from him in the future.

May the Lord grant him to continue to grow as Jesus grew (Luke 2:52).

Love you, Doc!

Happy birthday!