Greetings to you. I really have a troubling problem. I have an adopted son who is now in his 40s. I adopted him when he was just weeks old. He has been very good to me. My problem with him is, he is very dishonest and petty. He is in a very good job but he is just too materialistic. He resides overseas.

I want to know from you, how I can get him to change. He doesn't go to church or read the Bible. I am now elderly and I worry over him. I have no biological children. He is the son of my ex who also happens to be my late husband. I went and spent two months with him. We had a big fight where unkind words were said to me. I left his home in a temper and came back to Jamaica. I have not heard from him since then.

Do you think I should make the first move? Or should I just forget him? He is so moody and for no reason at all he flies off the handle.

Please tell me what to do. I really want a good relationship with him. I await your response. I love you.

N.M., Manchester, Jamaica

Dear N.M.,

You should keep in touch with this man. But, you should not try to direct his life. He is a grown man and he has a right to do whatever he wants to do, even if he makes wrong choices. I know you love him, but don't get in his way.

In the meantime, you can keep in touch with him. Somebody has to break the ice and you can take that initiative.

Pastor