Growth

This Sunday is my nephew Cameron's 30th birthday.

Thirty! I can hardly believe it.

I remember when Taylor and Cameron were born. At the time, they were the only grandchildren on either side of the family. My brother was excited to become a dad, but when he learned he was having a son, there was an extra spark in his eyes. He looked forward to all the things they would do together and the special bond they would share. 

Becoming an aunt was one of the greatest gifts of my life. I had no idea you could love a tiny human so much. It still ranks right behind being a mom.

This week, Cameron's wife, Peyton, is putting together a scrapbook for his birthday. She asked family and friends to share pictures and letters, and it sent me down memory lane. I have so many memories of "Bub" growing up. He was always sweet, loving, and completely fascinated by animals. It didn't matter if they were furry, feathered, slithering, or crawling. He loved them all. Honestly, he owned more unusual pets than any one person probably should.

Today, he is married, has a beautiful seven year old daughter, and is preparing to welcome a son later this year. He and Peyton just moved into their first home. His life continues to grow and change.

As I thought about his birthday, I realized how much all of us have changed over the years. Growth is part of life. Sometimes it comes through joyful milestones and celebrations. Other times it comes through challenges, disagreements, and learning to see one another with greater understanding. 

Cameron and I have not always seen eye to eye, especially when it comes to faith. Yet one thing I have learned is that God works in each person's life on His own timeline. Our job is not to force belief but to love, pray, and trust.

When I look at Cameron's life, I see so many blessings. A loving wife. A precious daughter. A baby on the way. A new home. A family that loves him deeply. I see countless reasons for gratitude and countless reminders that God is present, even when we don't always recognize Him. 

One of my favorite things is watching his daughter, Avery. Her parents sent her to a Christian preschool, where she learned to pray and thank God for His blessings. Children often have a beautiful way of seeing what adults miss. Their faith is simple, trusting, and genuine. Jesus reminds us, "Let the children come to me" (Matthew 19:14).

As Cameron turns 30, my prayer is not only for a wonderful year ahead but also that he continues to experience God's love in unexpected ways. Sometimes faith grows quietly, through the people we love, the blessings we receive, and the small moments that remind us we are never alone.

Growth and change are part of every stage of life. At 30, just as at 50 or 70, God is still shaping us, teaching us, and drawing us closer to Him.

May we all remain open to the ways God is working in our lives, even when we cannot yet see the whole picture.

Have a blessed weekend and Happy Father’s Day.