I have been blessed to be able to go through “fatherhood” twice in my life. The first time I was more of a failure than I was a success. When I became a father the first time I was an active drug addict who was functional enough to provide somewhat for my children, but I did not love my children enough to stop using, and because of my poor choices they were the ones who suffered the consequences of my actions. I came to Jesus when they were 6 and 3 and from that point forward God showed me who He was as my heavenly Father and showed me through His word how to be the father my children needed. About twelve years ago my older daughter moved in with me and over time had four beautiful children, three girls and a boy. I have had the honor of watching them grow up every day and more importantly grow in their love for each other and more importantly for the Lord Jesus. I cannot remember more than a day or two where I did not see them or at least talk to them throughout their lives. The boy turned 8 last Thursday. Wednesday night I was blessed to be able to spend some quality time with him as an almost 8-year-old, lol. As I watch over my family I have come to see that the days may go by slow and be long, but the years go by so fast and are so short. Thieodore is 8 and yet I remember him just being born like it was yesterday. I pray often on how I failed in the beginning of raising my children but am thankful that God has blessed me with another chance to come alongside my daughter and her husband because for us, it does take a village due to the special needs each child has. I am thankful for the opportunity to be able to lead not only my children but my grandchildren to the Lord. One of the verses that encourages me when it comes to family is written in *Matthew 19:13 Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”* I have learned to be intentional with all those in my life, especially those in my home. My first time raising children I worked a lot, I had a lot of time away from family activities as being an absent dad, but this time is different, every moment I can spend with my grandkids I do, because tomorrow is not promised and today is the day that the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it with them. I have been disengaged in many aspects of my life over the years, but today I vow to be a committed father, a dedicated grandfather, a loving friend, and an encouraging child of God to all I come in contact with. May all those who feel that they could be better engaged in the work of the kingdom seek God’s guidance on how to move forward to fulfill your purpose according to God’s plans and not your own. My BeLoved, may the grace of the Lord Jesus, and the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to give either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis in support of the different ministries God has entrusted to me. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support for the ministry activities that God has entrusted to me at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.