Twenty-three years ago tonight, we met a long little guy named Kirk Robert. It sounded like old news to some – “it’s a boy” – a fifth boy! But we were thrilled and still feel that way today. You were our first dare-devil – the one who got the most stitches and knew your way around the emergency room the best. You climbed everything, from the beginning – from couches and tables to tall Tennessee hill trees – you jumped off of everything including our rooftop – now that sent us to the emergency room our first day in town! We used to sing your song to you and you rocked away while hearing, “Hey’s a Kirk-boy, my friend. Hey’s a Kirkie-boy, He’s a my friend.” I can still see you swaying back and forth in your crib as we all sang to you. “Friend” – is one description that fits you perfectly. I can remember times when so many guys felt that you were their best friend. I remember the year you did not want to have a birthday party because you were afraid you would leave someone out who considered you their friend. You are a great friend – loyal – sensitive – gentle – loving – caring – optimistic – trusting – stay true to those qualities – do not give them up…no matter what you find ahead! 

There are many emotions I feel today as I remember your birth in Knoxville, Tennessee. You have been a treasure of a person in my life and to so many. Your name, Kirk, came from a close friend and also meant, “worshipper” – a name that you have lived up to in your passion for writing, singing, and playing worship . Robert – named after your dad – you have many of his attributes, like him in so many great ways. Home-schooled – football – soccer – track – dual enrollment – college graduate – Summit Ministries – mission trip – a whirlwind of memories since those days. God has so gifted you with artistry through music and photography – and now work in a whole new field. I commend you because in the challenges of life, you have persevered – you have had hope – you have kept believing and moving forward. You have loved and kept on loving! One year ago you walked up the aisle to meet the girl of your dreams in a powerfully, emotional   ceremony. No one will ever know all that walked up that aisle with you that day – what went into the relationship and your first year of marriage. But really, there is One Who knows and cares. He really has walked beside you and led you – even in those times you felt most alone in the journey. What a treasure of a person He led you to.

I guess we have all been learning that people’s words do not define who we are and where we are going. The power rests in God alone, who was and is our Great Shepherd. Follow Him!

Many new adventures await you and I am so thrilled to be a part, praying, and watching from the sidelines, as you grow in Christ-likeness. New job – new wife – new possibilities – I cannot wait to see all that is ahead.

The words most on my heart for you is “press on.”
-“Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” Hosea 6:3 HE WILL, SO PRESS ON!
-“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Philippians 3:12 
-“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 3:14 

CHRIST IS THE GOAL, SO PRESS ON!

Press on Kirk and know that “He Who is faithful will do it” – I will keep praying, believing, and pressing on with you. I love you and am so proud of the man you are- mom

They said it would  never happen…that the odds were against me…that I didn’t know how to have one…that God never meant for me to experience this…that I needed to eat more tomatoes,   or was that chocolate?…that I wouldn’t know what to do if I ever did have one, so I probably shouldn’t!  It’s amazing how knowledgeable people are and how willing they are to share that knowledge, but no one knew the plans that God had for us. I am so glad that I never believed all the input I received about this subject. It gives me even more reason to celebrate this day that began 16 years ago when Bob and I met our first and only daughter, after seven sons. Bob began to laugh (he is not normally a hearty laugher, and I began to cry). The phone calls went out to the sons, to the parents, to all our friends. A friend, at the church we pastored, was standing by the phone and took the call on that Wednesday night: “It’s a girl!.” The choir director never re-gained control of the choir practice – the church was in an uproar – after seven sons, Bob and Joy had a baby girl – their world was turning pink.

By the time we got to our home on Thursday morning, there was pink everywhere – pink spray paint in our front yard, “It’s a Girl!” Airplanes flying overhead could read it. Pink balloons – pink signs  – pink shoes at the front door – pink all over our 15 passenger van – church sign announced it – the newspaper had already called to do a story about it – and she wasn’t even 24 hours old. That Thursday, I never put her down; I was totally mesmerized by this little girl in my arms. We quickly got all the boys, who had been farmed out for the birth, back home and the newspaper writer and photographer were there. They  asked if I had a pink blanket, but there was not a pink item in the house, except for the mauve pink print curtains in my living room. It was my token decoration to celebrate girlhood – a mauve (popular then) living room and matching country curtains. I had to borrow a pink outfit, blanket, and bonnet for her first public appearance. Front page article and color picture in the Sunday paper, “It’s A Girl! Bristol Family of Seven Sons Finally Gets a Sister!”

The first Sunday, it was snowing but this little girl three days old was going to church – we arrived at a packed house and people in pink – men, women, teens, children – pink dresses – blouses – shirts – ties – boxes of pink bows were at the entrances of the building in case anyone did not get the memo. Everyone wore pink! The elders presented Bob with a book on raising daughters and gave us a framed print of a little boy looking into a crib with a baby girl in in, “For this child, we prayed…” it said. What a joyous occasion to introduce our little girl to the world, and we have never stopped enjoying this gift of girlhood.

Our daughter and sister has been more than all of us ever imagined. She is girly and adventurous – feminine and athletic – funny and serious – careful yet courageous –  reserved yet fearless – personality plus plus plus! She is dramatic and often loud – quiet and often gentle – dependent and independent. She would lead the way to the roller coasters as soon as she was tall enough. She was the one in the front car with her hands up! She is a lover of people and happy to spend time alone. Creative – daring – sensitive – artsy – practical! She is content – secure – at peace!

Her brothers have adored her since her first arrival. They fought for years over who got to carry her into a room anywhere we went. She was the object of attention, probably because the headbands and bows were so large on her tiny head. I had waited for this moment for many years and wanted to make the most of it. She loved hairbows, dressing up, and twirly dresses. She accompanied me to every sports practice and game for years – soccer, wrestling, tennis, football, swimming, soccer, track. We together have held our own in the midst of a major boy house. She was the first one to have her own bedroom – one of the perks of her position in our family! The boys could not believe it. She is sensitive but not easily offended. She could handle teasing and special names the boys chose for her. The brothers learned to treasure her and appreciate her – no insults or put downs – they have surrounded her with support and lots of love! They are so proud of her.

Today we celebrate this little girl who has grown into a beautiful young woman, who wants to change her world – checks out books to learn Russian – wants to go to Russia and minister there. Her artistic ability in dance is so powerful and her desire to grow in her skills motivates her to ask for help and work hard.  She is a diligent student, who does not require a great deal of oversight because of her goals for herself.

She gave her heart to Christ as a little girl and continues to desire his direction and plans for her life. She sets goals and works hard to attain them – she prays about her aspirations and watches God open and close doors. I really cannot say enough about this girl. I love her as my daughter and also as my sister in Christ. I cannot wait to see all that is ahead for her and how God will use her gifts and abilities. She loves to read and dance – sing and write – exercise and cook – she is just pure fun with her crazy thinking and acting! She is an easy friend to be around – not easily offended – friendly – outgoing – wish we could bottle and sell her energy!!

Mary Kathryn, you are a gift to this family – you are a girl of vision – a girl of conviction – a girl with great freedom to be who God wants you to be – you are a delight to all who know you. I am thankful that people were wrong and God knew that He had a girl just for me. You are a reminder to me of the goodness of God; He just knew that we needed you and you needed us! I love you deeply and so look forward   to this next year with you. As an only daughter with brothers, I have treasured my relationship with my mom, who is now 90 years old; I look forward to this same ongoing treasure in our relationship! I love you – Happy 16th Birthday! I am thankful – blessed – proud – honored – to know you and have relationship with you!

After we had our daughter, those same people I mentioned earlier, said that we would get over it – the novelty would wear off – but through the years, I can honestly say – we have never gotten over having this girl!

Happy Anniversary! More than thirty years ago today I found a treasure, in my best friend, Bob. On that cool, fall day, we said “I do” in front of God, friends, and family, and in the past three decades, I have grown to love, respect, and so admire the man I married. He is a man who grasped the love and acceptance of God, from the moment he met Him. In turn, we have all learned much about the Lord from Bob’s steadfast understanding of Him. When other men jumped on bandwagons and followed this teaching and that, Bob stayed the course of just desiring to know God and follow Him. With great vision and deep humility, he has loved and led our family with calm, patience, and kindness. “Still waters run deep,” is a description that one person made of him one day, and we have found it to be so true of Bob, whose convictions run deep, but his love runs deeper still. There is no rule or system of thinking that would ever hinder him from loving another person. Bob is not a reactionary man – doesn’t fly off at the handle; he thinks before he speaks. And when he speaks, what he says is important. He is optimistic when things around him are discouraging. He smiles at the future, even when it is uncertain, because of his unrelenting faith in a God, Who is a Promise-Keeper! He loves his wife and children and is committed to them in ways that few could ever understand. His unconditional love for them is a rock they can rest on! When other dads have ruled with a stern voice and demanding ways, Bob has used a spirit of gentleness and love. His eyes are continually toward the Lord as he prays for his family and those He loves. When others have given up on The Church, his faith has remained strong that God will continue to lead it and establish it until His return. I wish every man could spend time with this man – to learn his ways and follow his heart. Yes, his heart – it is the greatest part about this man. It is full of wisdom and understanding that come through in everyday life situations. It is not uncommon to hear him quietly humming or singing praises to God throughout a day, no matter what the day brings his way. My sons are so blessed to have seen him love his wife and children. With others, he is also totally accepting – does not push himself on anyone – never feels he must be the center of attention. His ears and heart are always open to others; what a great listener he is, never tiring of hearing all of our and others’ stories. Bob does not give up; he assumes the best about people; he looks out for the interests of others more than his own; he trusts in God; he loves! He is truly an amazing person…my husband of 32 years, as of today, and the father of all eight of our incredible children. He never pushes them to be what he wants them to be or do what he wants them to do, but quietly trusts in the Lord for each of them – full of peace. He is always there for who they are and whatever they are doing in life – they know! Once one of our sons had a difficult experience with another person and his response to me was, “I have watched dad forgive, so I knew what to do and how to do it.” Bob is not only dad, but a sweet g-daddy to five precious grandchildren, so far, and is already a prayer warrior for them! Bob, I am thankful God made you and brought our lives together more than 30 years ago in a ministry in Winter Park, Florida. You have been an amazingly, loving husband, so committed to our marriage and family. Thank you! Happy Anniversary – looking forward to growing “older” with you and seeing what God has ahead for “us.” I love you!

On a muggy July 7th, sixty-five years ago today, a shy, sweet Louisiana girl married a Pennsylvania boy, in an un-air conditioned building in Orlando, Florida. The year was 1945 and months earlier this beautiful young girl had met this soldier boy on a blind date at a friend’s house. Though no relatives could be there, in a borrowed wedding gown and his military dress, they committed their lives to God and to each other. She wasn’t too sure about this Yankee guy at first, but as they talked and went to church together, her interest was increased. In fact, she ended up loving him so much, that she boarded a train for Orlando to find a job and make her new home near where he was stationed. She would go with him as he spoke to youth groups about his new-found faith in Christ. He would eventually propose, asking her if she would agree to being “number 2” to him for the rest of their lives. “Number 1” would be the Lord Jesus Christ, whom He had given his life to follow. She agreed and the rest is a history that our family celebrates this day. They are still “number 2” to each other and Christ is still “number 1.” On that hot afternoon, words that are seldom used any more, were repeated that with only a few new friends nearby.

“I, Libby/Don…take you…to be my lawfully wedded (wife/husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part.”

Today we celebrate those vows made that afternoon. We celebrate two people who would lay their lives down for their Lord, for each other, and for their future children. We celebrate the calling they have walked in, ministering in Texas, New York, and literally around the world during these last 65 years, pastoring and teaching people how to pray. We celebrate a love that has deepened with every hardship and every sorrow. We celebrate a faithfulness that few couples in our world will ever experience or even know about. We celebrate a legacy that has been left to three adult sons and one daughter, 17 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and more yet to come. We celebrate a purity, a life of love and selflessness, as they each care for each other today. We celebrate the laughter and the joy with which they have met every circumstance, including their “senior” years and ways. Forgetting things, moving slower, taking medications – looking around and seeing so many elderly people when they are out to eat – (thinking that they are not ones) -sitting side by side in a restaurant booth – holding hands everywhere they go – mom kissing dad’s bald head and dad kissing mom’s neck – dad’s romantic plans for every special day – more in love today than they could have ever imagined being, 65 years ago. She calls him “dad” and he calls her “momma.” In fact, people all over the world call her “momma;”she has loved so many people as they have traveled and taught.

Mom and Dad, today and every day, your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are so very proud of you – proud of your marriage – of who you both have become – of the thousands of lives you have touched literally around the world, as you have selflessly given yourselves to others in ministry – even today – always looking for someone who might need a word of encouragement, a hug, or a gift – sitting by the sides of those in the hospital or sick at home – always ready to share about your faith or how to pray, to the God Who has seen you through this life. As you both approach 90, we are amazed and so very thankful for your lives, for your marriage – and that we still have you with us. Our children and grandchildren have a real picture of what can be, when two people walk with the Lord and each other, faithfully. Thank you for being that picture – for loving God, each other, and all of us enough to stay together these 65 years. Happy Anniversary to two people, who could not be more in love.  You have taught us more about love than could ever be recorded in all the books about the topic. Hollywood has no idea about the kind of love you two have experienced and still do today. We wish everyone could know you – see how you love and what your commitment to each other looks like.

We all love you more than we can express!! Have an amazing day – still in love – 65 years and counting.

In a day when moms are often the brunt of “your mom” jokes, and are not the most admired people, I want to be a voice that says, “Moms really do matter!”

I was pleasantly surprised yesterday, when in a public high school, a boy informed  me that after school he was making a special trip to go get something for his mom for Mothers’ Day. He was making her a card and wanted to buy her flowers, because she loves flowers! What an encouragement that was! I wasn’t sure anyone else in the class even knew it was going to Mothers’ Day.

What an amazing idea God had when He brought Eve onto the scene with a specific and special plan for her to be “mom.” In fact, she was named Eve, by Adam, after the fall…after the curse (and the curse wasn’t mothering).  “…Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living” Gen. 3:20. The prophetic way she was named – she was going to be called “mom” before there was a baby in sight. In fact, to be mother of all the living at that moment was a little scary – who or what was she to be mother of – the birds, the fish, the land animals; what else was there? But God knew where He was going with this plan – the Intelligent Designer had a plan – “mothers” – and Eve would only be the first of millions to come. He planned for there to be babies, children, teenagers, young adults, adults…and mothers were to be the starting point for the grand plan. Moms matter!

I love mothers – I am one – we all have one – I love my own mom. I love to see who moms are, get to know them, and appreciate what they are willing to do, all for their children. My mom is approaching 90 and still is mothering in her own sweet way, as well as running a household and being a wife to my dad, grandmother, great-grandmother. Mom, you are an amazing mom, and I am so blessed to be your only daughter. Moms matter!

My daughter-in-love is nursing a set of twins, while caring for a special needs child, and also mothering two little boys. My son, her husband, goes around the world in ministry, and she faithfully supports him and makes a way at home for all to work. You are my hero, Jordana! Moms matter!

A friend who is a mom, grandmom, and daughter has taken her elderly mom in this past week to live with her family. The mom has Alzheimer’s and is no longer able to be on her own! Many of us are busy moms with many responsibilities, but now taking care of our own moms. I have another friend who is deeply concerned about the upcoming marriage of her senior age mom…to a man she has only recently met. “Momming” just never seems to end. Moms matter!

A mom’s heart is like no other – it is hopeful – it is open – it is wide – it is deep. It is large enough to take in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren…and even those who come in to our home, along the way. It is a tender heart – it is flexible – it is forgiving – it has easily accessible tears – it is jealous – protective – encouraging – it is a teaching heart – a nurturing heart – a nourishing heart – it is a teachable heart – influential – powerful. It is a heart that is “on call” 24/7, ready to stretch to include others who will come into our children’s lives, loving them. It is a heart that must not shrink back in fear – trust me, after seven active sons, I know! Our hearts often break, but must bounce back quickly to respond to the next need. I think moms are the ultimate “comeback kids.” We cannot be grudge holders – we must move forward, free to keep mothering, loving, and letting go, all in one constant, progressive sweep. Now that is hard stuff! But moms matter!

No matter what our culture tells us, the presence of a loving mom makes all the difference. It is what our children need – it is what our world needs. No one can take our place. I celebrate that. Sometimes we have to speak out; sometimes we need to hold back and be silent. Sometimes we must forge ahead with abandon for our children; other times we must hold back and wait for our children to learn the lesson they need to learn. We must be as sly as a fox at times – you know, those eyes in the back of our heads – but gentle as lambs when the occasion calls for it. We cannot be over-reactors (that was hard for me at first) – calmness comes in handy in this vocation! The demands are relentless and overwhelming at times. We must be able to bear the burdens of our own lives, as well as those He calls us to mother.  Moms matter!

A significant picture for moms is found in one of the names of God, El Shaddai. A part of this name is from the Hebrew root that means “breast” – the breasted one – it is a picture of a nourishing God, who is all-sufficient for our needs. Just a nursing mother is the total provision for her little one, so is God total provision for our lives. He is enough like a nursing mom’s milk is enough to sustain the life of a child. Several references in the Old Testament refer to God as one who nurtures and loves “like a mother nursing her children.” It is a place of self-sacrifice, of love, of protection, of provision. As God gathers us in His arms and in the shelter of His wings, so we gather our own in the same way. Mothering is an issue of the heart – the heart of God is our source! His using us as a picture of Himself strongly says, “Moms matter!”

Many moms will not be with their children on Mothers’ Day, for different reasons and may not even hear the words, “Happy Mothers’ Day.” Maybe you know some of those moms, and you need to call and remind them that they are precious moms and that they matter! I had that opportunity this morning to let a friend know that she is an amazing mom, even though her life is in a difficult place and her children will not be with her. Her silence and tears on the phone reminded me of how important those words were to her. This is not an easy vocation – it is one that many women do not choose, and young pregnant teenage girls often think, looks easy. For those who work inside or outside the home, it is a challenge that is beyond our own personal capabilities, but not beyond our God’s – He is El Shaddai – the all-sufficient one for us – He is enough! Happy Mothers’ Day to my mom – to my husband’s mom – to my daughter-in-love – to my sisters-in-love – to all the amazing moms I know and don’t know. You matter and you are a picture of a nurturing God to your children and to the world. I am a blessed mom – thanks to my seven sons and one daughter for making me one! Moms matter! Happy Mothers’ Day!

I so appreciate the words that have been spoken out after the death of Lydia Schatz, a young homeschooled child in California. This article captures the heart of the issue.

http://www.bradenton.com/2010/03/13/2127746/a-caution-there-is-no-such-thing.html?storylink=addthis

All Christian parents must know, We cannot beat our children into obedience or submission – not “physical” beating – not “verbal” beating – not “mental or emotional” beating.

Starting out in a very strong homeschooling program in the 80’s, I at first believed that "first-time obedience" could be a reality all the time. I could raise perfectly impressive children, who would agree with everything I believed for all time. What was I thinking?? I often used anger, words, disapproval, and other pressures to get the actions I wanted from my children. The homeschooling group I was associated with was famous for taking scripture out of context, to get desired results. I was guilty of even doing that – using religion to get the job done. When I read the Bible to my children, I would often point out their shortcomings along the way, as I read about it in the verses, making Bible reading time, a real bummer! I was doing it all from a good heart and a desire to see my children grow up and do the right thing, even follow the Lord. But what they really needed, more than my strict, often berating ways, was a Savior – that, or HE, is the starting point. They needed His love, and that was supposed to be coming through me!!!

I have learned so much through the years and I am encouraging all of you to keep submitting your hearts to the Lord concerning the relationships in your lives. I am still growing in how to love my children (much older now), whether they do what I hope for, or want them to, or not! I am such a work in process and so are they! God has been sooooo patient with me, cutting me so much slack – blessing me with children beyond my expectations – I have never received condemnation from Him. But I am talking to reading about so many who have been hurt by false thinking:

-that perfection in our children can be achieved by us as parents –

-that all ages must obey parents without question – even adult children – or else – the loss of relationship, the blessing!

-that women should submit to husbands at any cost –

-that the ends justifies the means in parenting and other relationships –

-that isolation and shame is a key to getting family members to submit –

-threats of losing the "blessing" – being out from under – God only speaks through "me" for you –

-heavy patriarchal parenting by the father – his mandate – his kingdom – his dominion over wife and children – his way!

We laughed at Mr. Banks, in the movie, Mary Poppins, when he bragged…

Mr. Banks: “I feel a surge of deep satisfaction, much as a king astride his noble steed – thank you. When I return from daily strife, to hearth and wife… How pleasant is the life I lead!…I run my home precisely on schedule. At 6:01, I march through my door. My slippers, sherry, and pipe are due at 6:02. Consistent is the life I lead!…It’s grand to be an Englishman in 1910! King Edward’s on the throne, it’s the age of men! I’m the lord of my castle, the sovereign, the liege! I treat my subjects, servants, children, wife with a firm but gentle hand, noblesse oblige. It’s 6:03, and the heirs to my dominion are scrubbed and tubbed, and added, quickly fed. And so I’ll pat them on the head, and send them off to bed. Ah, lordly is the life I lead!"

…only to discover from his wife, that his children are missing! Hmmm…

…so much teaching scripture out of context – so many isolated verses with no knowledge of what God is really saying…so much "ranting" by preachers, partners, and parents…

…the damage that has been done is devastating and often, life-long. We pride ourselves in being so "pro-life," then snuff the life out of those closest to us, or who may not agree with us. This is an issue for all Christians to grapple with and help each other with. We need each other and that is the way God planned it – the family – the body of Christ – God’s design – walking alongside each other, exhorting, admonishing, and encouraging one another – praying for one another – not abusing each other (physically, emotionally, mentally) to get the desired results.

Keep seeking the Lord and asking Him how to love your family, giving them the guidance and teaching they need. I am not talking about permissive parenting – going from one ditch to the other, but finding the balance that Christ has for us – His Holy Spirit in us, actively leading us into all Truth – that is one of His jobs. I am there, learning alongside of you – continuing to learn how to love teen to adult children, grandchildren thrown in there too – trusting God’s work in their lives. How I long to pass on to all of them a more accurate picture of God and His love – a more biblical way to approach life – a more consistent way to read and know Scripture. I have a long way to go!!

Let’s stay on the journey – and go for it. Paul, after he goes over his credentials, that could make him feel pretty good about himself (like Mary Poppins, “practically perfect in every way”), reminds us in Phil. 3 to…watch out – don’t put confidence in your flesh, even though mine was pretty good – there is nothing greater than knowing Christ! So….(my commentary is in parentheses)

¹²Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect (not gonna happen), but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ¹³Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it (we all are works in process). But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind (great place to start – and he had some big stuff to forget!) and straining toward what is ahead (lean into that finish line), ¹⁴I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

¹⁵All of us who are mature should take such a view of things (for the sake of our children, too – we are more mature so we should act like it!). And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you (I can trust in this fact for myself and others – God is able to do this!). ¹⁶Only let us live up to what we have already attained (what we know – that is plenty of a challenge!).

¹⁷Join with others in following my example…take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. ¹⁸as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ (even religious people, especially religious people!). ¹⁹Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. ²⁰But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior (the answer for all of us!) from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, ²¹who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

God, the truly perfect parent has all kinds of children, with all kinds of issues, and in all degrees of obedience. He absolutely loves all of them in an everlasting way! We are not the magical Mary Poppins, making life one great mystical, magical adventure, and we are not Mr. Banks – in total control – or even Mrs. Banks – clueless. We are parents and partners, making our way through life, with a big and loving God, and like Paul, we are pressing on….

Happy birthday Matthew! Twenty-nine years ago today, early in the morning, I said hello to you, my first son, after a very long and difficult labor. People wondered if I would ever have more children – let them wonder no more – seven sons and one daughter later, I could not be more blessed!! While you were in the womb, we prayed for you, sung to you often, talked to you about your future, and treasured you from the beginning. We gave you to the Lord before we even knew your name. And when you arrived on planet earth March 27, 1981, we had several names picked out. You were a tiny six pound, thirteen ounce baby – long and skinny – black hair and wide open eyes looking all around like, “Get me out of here; I have important things to do.” And you did! When we rehearsed the names we had carefully picked out, the only ones that matched you were “Matthew Aaron.” Those two words expressed the desires of our hearts for you – Matthew – “Gift of God” – Aaron – “Bringer of Light.” We prayed and have believed that in choosing those names for you, that God would allow you to be that gift from the Lord who would bring light to a very dark world. Yes!

With those big dark eyes and legs and arms on the move, we sensed there really was work for you to do. Those eyes, arms, and legs have never stopped moving. You talked early causing people to wonder what expensive preschool I had enrolled you in. You stood at the front windows of our little seminary house, inviting students to come in for breakfast, causing me to scramble for my robe. If they couldn’t come then, you would tell them it was okay, they could just come later for supper. I never knew who would show up. You took to a microphone early, singing worship songs from age 2, on. From seven years old, you spoke publicly every opportunity you had, and still do. Yes!

Your few piano lessons led you to discover that you could hear music, then play it without notes on paper – any kind – all kinds of music. You were a creative writer – composing poetry that would later become lyrics to songs you would write. Drawing, artistic tendencies, creativity – you were not the child who did “time outs” well, because while you were there, a whole new world would open up to you and you would forget why you were there and have way too much fun. You never met a stranger – and did not understand the don’t talk to strangers rule – and if there were none around to befriend, you would make up your own imaginary crew. Having seven siblings helped with that later. The opportunity to speak, debate, and act uncovered more of your talents; where would God take this young man, we wondered. Would he write, act, speak, sing, play music? Would he teach, preach, admonish, encourage, exhort, challenge? Would he create, start something new, lead others?  To all those questions, yes!

While sitting in a room with a sick child and watching the church service on closed circuit television, I felt or heard or experienced an impression from the Lord that there would be an invitation given and that you would respond by giving your life to missions, in the main sanctuary. Yes! You did that day, as a young child. The television showed this little boy kneeling at the altar of a church in Tennessee, saying “yes,” to God and missions.

As pioneer homeschooling parents, you survived the challenge with us. There was not too much out there in those early days, but YES, we did it! I didn’t do an amazing job but my prayer for God to complete the work I was attempting, has been answered in all my children. You graduated and married a sweet childhood friend, one who also had sensed the call to missions on her life. Yes to marriage!

Children began to come even though you had warned me that you would not be having children for several years.  “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry” (Robert Burns). Yes to Tobin, Josiah, Jude, and most recently twins Ean and Eden. Not popular, not easy, not predicable – no formulas – but amazing and wonderful – having children! I know you did not mean to follow in our footsteps of large family, but God seems to have taken you down that path, to which you have bravely said, “yes!” What an adventure you are on!!

Now a new calling – finally all the gifts begin to come together in the founding of “SafewaterNexus” http://safewaternexus.org/ under “Go International” http://gointernational.org/. Uganda – now Haiti – bringing wells of clean, fresh water – tents, food, medical supplies, mosquito nets, shoes – school supplies – heart – tears – love – compassion, and most of all, LIGHT – IN THE FORM OF THE LIVING WATER, JESUS CHRIST. Yes!

I am so proud of you as you continue to walk in an imperfect world, an often disappointing world – I apologize for the church and the lack of true compassion and ministry you have often seen – where people care more about themselves and their needs than the needs of others. I do know that there are many challenges before you with Jude’s special needs – with raising support to provide – with loving Jordana and children – with meeting the needs of many who have captured your heart. I do know that life is hard – what your eyes have seen make you wonder  about things you have always believed. But you are on the path – keep going –God will show you how to do His work, with the family He has given you. Keep close to Him – love His Word – keep bringing water to so many who are thirsty – light to a dark world.

The words “happy birthday” seem so inferior, when I want to say “I celebrate you – your entrance into this world – I celebrate what Christ is doing and wants to do in and through your life – I celebrate the lives you are touching even today in Haiti.” What a place to celebrate your birthday!  I love you and do not have to think hard to remember my first tears and joy at the announcement of your birth – of my love for you the moment I saw your face. Giving children away to the Lord is important – watching them grow up, make decisions, make mistakes – are all parts that I have had to learn. You were and are the Lord’s – I just got to get in on part of the action.

Please hug someone for me in Haiti today – say, “this is from my mom!” I love you and as always – am praying for you! Happy Birthday!

“Affliction frequently opens truths to us and opens us to the truth. Experience unlocks truths that were closed. Many passages of Scripture will never be made clear by the commentator, for those must be expounded by experience. Many a verse is written in a secret ink that must be held to the fire of adversity to make it visible. Affliction plows and opens our hearts, so that into our innermost nature the truth penetrates and soaks like rain into the plowed land. Affliction, when sanctified by the Holy Spirit, brings much glory to God through the believer’s experience with the Lord’s faithfulness.” –C.H. Spurgeon.

Happy Birthday to one amazing lady who was born 89 years ago today, Margaret Elizabeth.Born in Laurel, Mississippi, with a twin brother Charles – she is better known today as Libby. She is mom to three sons, one daughter – grandmother to 17 teens to adults, great grandmom to seven, and “momma” (as my dad calls her) to hundreds around the country and world! She is just one great “mom.” Sixty-four plus years ago she said, “yes” to a Pennsylvania GI who had come to her town of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She moved to Orlando to be nearer to where he was stationed, then without either sets of parents nearby, this lady married the man she loved one hot July day. Both my mom and dad said “yes” to God first, then “yes” to each other second! They still have that same commitment today. She has never wavered – in fact, she would tell you that she loves God and my dad more today than ever before. What makes this lady so special?

When she said “yes” to God and “yes” to my dad, that began her on a journey that has taken her from southern Louisiana, to Florida, to Texas, to Long Island, New York, and all over the world. She has served selflessly as a wife, mom, and minister’s wife all of these years. She has willingly  moved from place to place and set up housekeeping wherever God took her; she has listened to thousands of sermons, taken notes, and laughed at jokes she had already heard! She has stood by the side of every one of her children, believing in them, praying for them, and giving to them and to their families. She has traveled the world with my dad the last 30 years as they have conducted prayer conferences for churches in almost every state and many foreign countries. She has logged hundreds of miles walking (and still does), with the man she loves. She has been there with him through multiple and ongoing physical struggles, as they have grown older together. She has laughed at her “elderly things” and never given up on getting things done that needed to get done. She emails on her computer and surfs the web. She carries her cell phone, although some times she forgets to turn it on! She hugs anyone whom she feels might need a hug, as she is out and about, meeting no strangers. She helps and prays for her neighbors, takes food to those much younger than herself, making sure no one goes hungry. She loves…loves like no one I know. She loves her children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, and excitedly looks forward to many more of the latter! She has a Christmas stocking with a name for everyone of the family members and puts them up around her living room every year, celebrating the many lives in her family. She calls the lonely, listens to the needs of others, weeps with those who weep, and rejoices with those who rejoice. She has faced many storms courageously and plans to keep on doing so. She still cooks, drives, and helps my dad mow the yard. If you call her in the morning, you will catch her with her morning coffee, orange juice, and her Bible and prayer list. She may be praying for you. She is teachable and open to learning new skills, keeping the instructions close by in case she cannot remember them.

I am so proud of my mom and the picture of relentless motherhood she is; she is a powerful example of a faithful, loving wife, to her daughter, daughters-in-laws, grand-daughters, great-grand-daughter, and those yet to come. She is quiet strength – resolved commitment – love in action – an amazing mom.

Prov. 31 describes my mom well! She is a “wife of noble character…worth more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her…she brings him good, not harm all the days of her life!…she works with eager hands…she brings food from afar…gets up while it is still dark…provides food for her family (and others)…considers…and buys…sets about her work vigorously…her arms are (still) strong for her tasks…she opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy (you cannot stop her even now)…her husband is respected at the city gate (many of them)…she is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed (yes, we do!); her husband also, and he praises her (boy, does he?); Many women do noble things (in this culture), but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Today I give her the reward she has earned, and I am one of her works praising her at the city gate!

Mom, may all of us who know you, follow your example, in love, faithfulness, and good deeds. You are amazing! Happy Birthday!!

My firstborn son Matthew worked out a way to bring our fourth son, Wesley, all the way in from Los Angeles, where he moved for school in August. After a midnight call from Matthew, in Tennessee, woke us up – asking us if we had received a special delivery (which we had not) – Wesley burst into our room, followed by a younger brother who had picked him up from the airport. I had been praying that someone would have him over for Thanksgiving, like we have others in our home for holidays. I had been on the phone with him earlier in the day, concerned that he have a place to be for Thanksgiving. He assured me he would work something out and have a good place to be for the day!! All the while, he was actually waiting in the airport to come home!
We will all be together after tonight when Matthew, his wife and children arrive. Eight children, one daughter-in-love (so far), and five grandchildren, six and under, including a set of boy/girl twins will all be in our home for the week!! My extended family is in Texas and I so miss doing holidays with them, but I am thrilled and grateful to have my family together for Thanksgiving!!

We were shocked by Wesley’s arrival – he went from room to room waking the other siblings up. Mary Kathryn’s response after being woken from a dead sleep was to jump up and say, “This is a dream come true!” As the boys all looked at each other, I thought, “Don’t you just love the GIRL factor in a house full of boys??”

Family – what a great idea God had, and I am so thankful to Him for it!

Words to a friend after great disappointment in a risk she took to get answers she longed for…

My son reminded me of a statement as I read a piece he wrote: “the quality and outcomes of your life will be determined in part by the risks you are willing to make.”
You took a huge risk and followed the Lord into a situation. You have done well. I continue to learn many things about the Lord in recent years and even days. One is that I must step out in faith and be okay with whatever outcome the Lord may bring. He is sovereign – He is in control – He loves me – He is all-powerful – He does not change – He is the same in every struggle and on the other side of every struggle. I used to think that if I was really living the Christian life, that struggle and doubt would be eliminated at some point, but I am beginning to see that struggle and doubt and suffering are part of the journey. If God eliminated those, we wouldn’t need Him! As my son also says, “life is more about learning to struggle, doubt, and suffer well.” I believe your heart can grieve the outcome of your efforts and should grieve. But keep going – keep searching for all God has for you. Don’t give up – know Him better through this suffering. He longs for you to know Him!

We all search for answers to questions we have in life; that is a real part of life. Sometimes we are glad when the answer comes and sometimes we don’t get the answer we had hoped for. In fact, the latter is most commonly true. The answer you have found is just an answer, but it is not THE ANSWER – it is not where your hope is. Our hope cannot be in the ANSWER to a question – it really is in Christ. When we get those disappointing answers, we can give up on asking the questions or keep pressing on. The point is to keep walking, even in the greatest disappointment or crisis of belief. God always walks with us and takes us to the next step. Many things will not be understood or figured out this side of heaven. The chapter 11 of Hebrews men and women of faith never saw the fulfillment of their faith on earth but they were being highlighted for their faith. I would say that you are a woman of faith!!.

Risk is a great part of our lives – it is part of what faith is all about. And in the days ahead, do not be afraid to risk again. God is faithful. He is continuing to show you Himself – finding Him in the midst of your questions is often greater than finding Him in the midst of the answer you wanted. I think it is probably always greater!

I hope I make a little sense – I am proud of you. Keep stepping out – trusting God – learning as you walk. I know the questions you have are ones that have caused you great sorrow and pain…and this adds to it, but God is there – He is with you – He doesn’t leave you. He is teaching you. He is leading you. Our biblical worldview is different from all others in that it offers a God who suffers with you and grieves with you – He grieves not only with you but over the choices some have made that have caused you such sorrow.

-Who knows the reasons behind the answer you have received? An all-knowing God does! HE knows the parts to this story we cannot see and He knows how it will all come together one day. The answer to our questions is rarely about “us.” We are a part of a Kingdom of God and we must be willing to be used to make a difference in the Kingdom in others’ lives.

-Think of the life lesson and what you can tell your children in the days ahead when they struggle and have questions…”I once did something that was very hard in search of an answer, took a great risk – and did not get the answer I longed for. But God was faithful to me and He will be faithful to you.” There will be many times when you and those around you need those words of affirmation.

I believe you followed the Lord – the answer was not what you longed for it to be, but it doesn’t mean the situation was wrong and that you did the wrong thing. Remember that life is not about ridding yourself of struggle, pain, doubt, and suffering – it is that in this fallen world, we have a Savior and with Him, we can struggle, doubt, and suffer well!! He will not leave you or forsake you.

I love you my friend and am in the journey of life with you!!