The gift of a life
Life is a rare and mysterious thing. Despite some who would try to make it seem common, cheap or in over abundance, we can’t help but know otherwise. I think of the way we marvel in the spring at the buds on the trees, the baby geese and ducks in the river or the amount of care that goes into showing a child the first glimpse of a baby bird in a nest. Look in the face of a child as they introduce you to their baby brother or sister or the face of a man or woman who has just lost someone dear. Watch the news and listen to the words we use, the faces we make, or the feelings we have when life, any life has been senselessly taken or lost.
Life is a rare and mysterious gift!
My sister, Michelle, and her husband Mark are missionaries to Turkey. It makes me proud just getting to say that. Found out a few months ago they were going to be parents again for the fifth time. We were so shocked and excited. We had all thought we were all done having babies in our family until the next generation took over, many, many, MANY…years from now. But to our elation there was going to be one more. I think we all looked forward to that gift again. More baby feet and baby toes, baby giggles and even the baby cries, remember it is a mystery why we love it so much.
Then last week they found there was a problem with the baby. Routine ultrasound and found fluids on base of the babies head near the spine. The first thoughts were that there was a genetic disorder. Michelle and Mark called and we prayed. The doctors wanted to do all the things that doctors do. I played my role as concerned brother, spewing worthless advice and trying to be strong. We have been very blessed in our family, there has never been a miscarriage, a problem pregnancy, or any real health issues with our kids, Carrie’s sisters kids, My sister’s kids, her in-laws, none! Until now. So we prayed and tried hard to stay closer, more in touch. Michelle and Mark were amazing! I don’t think they missed a single step. Have a mentioned that I am proud of them.
Yesterday Michelle went into the doctor for continued studies to try to understand what was going on with the baby, but what they learned was that he had passed away. I talked to my sister today and we cried…
They induced labor and delivered a baby boy, Caleb Isaac. Michelle held him and loved him the way only a mother can no matter what. When we talked Michelle seemed more interested in comforting me. The pastor who struggles with death. I tried to pray, I didn’t do a very good job…and then I thought, whatever struggle this child would have had in life, he skipped. God in his grace took the child before he struggled a day. He had the love of a family that will go on for eternity. We are not limited in terms of time to know him, or to love him, because we will be together forever. Whatever struggle Mark and Michelle would have face, and I know they would have faced it willingly and gratefully, God has taken from them. But not the joy.
So today I marvel at the gift and mystery of life. Today I am the proud uncle of a baby boy named Caleb. I haven’t met him yet, but I have loved him and will continue to forever. I will mourn the fact that we never got to play together here, that I will never hear him learn to call me uncle Jerry. That I won’t get to take him on his first hike or wilderness adventure. I hurt for my sister and her husband. I will never forget her face today…but life is not defeated. It is more enduring than that, more precious, more eternal.
Life is a rare and mysterious thing.
Father,
Be present with Mark and Michelle today when I can not. Bring joy in this sorrow, peace in this pain, and life out of this loss. Be God, so that we may worship you fully.
Your broken son,
Jerry
