A Prayer for My Son

Father, I am praying for my son tonight, and I feel the weight of how quickly he is growing past the reach of my hands. I cannot walk every road he will walk, and that truth aches in me.

I confess I have wanted to control his path more than I have wanted to trust You with it. I have mistaken my anxiety for love, and my hovering for protection. Forgive me for trying to be a god to him when I was only ever meant to point him toward You.

So I bring him to You now, by name, the way I once carried him in my arms. You know the man he is becoming long before I do. Shape his heart toward courage that is gentle and strength that bows to You.

Your word says You began a good work in him and will carry it through to completion. I lean on that promise tonight, because You finish what You start.

I release my grip on his future and place his hand in Yours. Guard his steps where I cannot follow. Let him know, deep down, that he is loved by You and by me.

Whatever he becomes, let him become Yours. I trust You with my boy. Amen.