Anticipating...

Waiting and anticipating the birth of a grandchild reminds me of the stories of the Jews awaiting the arrival of the Messiah. As Christians we are taught not to anticipate, but to experience the moment and enjoy the process. Still, it is very hard not to anticipate the birth of our baby granddaughter; we are so excited about her arrival and look forward to every second with her, holding her, hugging her, watching her grow. Being parents, we know the wonder of the moment we first lay eyes on our own children and the immediate emotional response to that magical realization when the myth becomes real, the dream comes true, the waiting is over.

We pray for Lindley Marie Rose, that she will be born healthy, that her birth process will be easy for her and her dear mother, that her mother's suffering will be mercifully shortlived and not unbearable. We pray that God in His infinite wisdom, compassion and love will wrap His comforting arms around all 3 of them, Ashley, David, and Lindley, keeping them safe and pull them through the storm, and that they will feel His presence in that moment when Lindley finally greets her worldly parents face-to-face. Amen.