My teenage sense of self was crying out for a boost when my brother was invited to go on a weekend hunting trip and I was not. My pain spilled over into sadness, disgust, and clamor.

When my parents inquired as to the trouble, I explained how I felt, and before long something powerful happened. My Dad changed his plans and took me, me alone, to Loon Lake on a day-long fishing trip.

Please understand that my Dad was a busy pastor of a growing church. Saturdays are not normally good days for pastors to be out and about, because so much has to be ready for the big day on Sunday. But my Dad sacrificially gave his time, energy, and plans to care for his son on that drizzly Saturday so long ago.... Read more here