Men and Their Dads

In 2012 I (Steve) attended "Chiang Mai Men's Retreat". Awkward at first, not knowing anyone after just moving to town, I got connected with a group of guys I've met with weekly for the past 7 years. Our annual retreat this year focused on 'father wounds'. When we hear that phrase, we are tempted to think of anger or abuse - and there is that. However, some of our attendees talked about more subtle wounds like that expectation of perfection from their dad or that disengagement that left them on their own to figure out life. If truth be told, none of us men had a perfect father nor could hope to be one. 

The upside of our retreat was focusing on God, our Heavenly Father. He loves us perfectly and unconditionally. At Jesus' baptism, before he did a stitch of ministry, the heaven's opened and our Heavenly Father spoke those deeply sought after words we all long to hear. "This is my son, in whom I am well pleased". Pray for me as I begin this 8th year leading a weekly men's meeting that God would deepen our brotherhood in Christ. 

Prayer Requests:  

1. Pray for Alberta in her last online course of her degree. Its the first time her instructor has taught this course online and its been a bumpy ride so far.

2. Pray for Krista in her first week of her last year at SCAD. She juggles a lot with classes, her job in the admissions office for her scholarship and a new job as a teachers assistant (TA).   

3. Pray for Heather in Scotland. She and her roommate would like to find a new flat that is located closer to transportation links and it's been difficult in a tight rental market. Also, Heather has gotten close to a couple of directing jobs recently, but so far hasn't landed any. Thanks for praying. 

Serving Christ with You, Steve and Alberta