Happy Birthday, David!

Today is David’s thirty-sixth birthday! I wish that I could honestly say that the last thirty-six years have been remembered day by day; however, looking back I realize that I remember them in “bunches.” There are many days that seem to rise above the routine and stand clearly as special memories, but over all I seem to recall the whole of the experience with a clarity that transcends individual moments. Perhaps that’s why it is so easy to celebrate this day with my son. To honor this day, as I have traditionally done with all my family, I want to do something a bit different. I am going to look to a few of the Scriptures that point to the enormous love and grace God shows to us through our children. The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. (Zephaniah 3:17 ESV). Your mom and I weren’t the only ones singing over David when he was born; so was God. Can you imagine the sight of God, Creator and Sustainer of the universe singing over your child? It boggles the mind, yet it is true. And, it is not with a quiet, still voice but “with loud singing?” Yes, God rejoices over each of us. David is precious to God even as he is to us. That gives me great pause for thanksgiving! For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. (Psalm 139:13-14 ESV). There were no mistakes made when David was born. God saw and fashioned him long before. And the purpose was for these wonderful works. I have been privileged to see just a few of them through the years. Now that my son is a father I can see the beginning of even greater works ahead. Perhaps we all need to look within to see the purposeful creation God has willed bringing us into this great creation of his. Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. (Psalm 127:3-4 ESV). When I celebrate the birth of my sons, I always go to these verses. It reminds me of how God thought of me as well. He thought to give me the protection of these “arrows” to be put in a “warrior’s hand.” Arrows were never intended to be a defensive weapon. They are not like a shield or helmet. They are offensive. The warrior takes up his bow in the face of an enemy and uses them to win the victory. My battles have always been easier when I leaned on the strength and joy that are rooted in my children. For these and many other reasons I am so grateful for my children! Thanks you, David! And, Happy Birthday, son!