Homosexuality and son

Remember that God remains your “refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).  Take to heart what God has promised:  “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).  Circumstances in life may change, but our God does not.  God stands ready to hear your prayers.  So, turn to him, lay out your requests before him, and be confident he will hear your prayers and answer them according to his love and wisdom.  God remains present in Word and sacrament to bolster your faith and strengthen you for Christian living and witnessing.  So, take him up—often—on his offer to “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

In addition, tell yourself that you took your parental responsibilities seriously and did what you could as a parent to bring up your child “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4), recognizing that no one has ultimate control over what someone else thinks or believes.  Recall God’s general promise:  “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

More than ever, your son is in need of Christian influence and witnessing in his life, so continue to reflect to him the love of God in Christ, while also making it known what God says about homosexuality.

As far as resources are concerned, you would do well to speak with your pastor.  He may be aware of counseling services available in your community or associated with your congregation.  I can also pass along to you this link to a resource available from a member of our synod.  You may be especially interested in a new “support page-network for family members” in the “Resources” section.

God bless you as you face this challenge in life.  Know that the Lord goes with you and surrounds you with his loving presence and powerful love.