Some little guy around here is turning eight this week. (EIGHT! How is that even possible?)
I remember the sequence of events leading to Jonah’s birth so clearly.
That middle of the night email telling me his birthmother was in labor.
The nine-hour drive to Louisiana with Brienne in the backseat.
Standing in line at McDonald’s somewhere in Alabama, receiving a phone call telling me our sweet boy had been born.
The fears and nervousness, wondering if his birthmother would actually place him in my arms.
I remember the next day, the emotions as I held him for the first time.
The tears and bravery and strength of the sweet little mama who was giving him up forever.
The drive from the hospital to my parents’ house with my son. My son.
The awe I had for my Jesus in that moment.
Sometimes we need a reminder of what the Lord has done in our lives, the miracles He has performed. Jonah is our miracle baby. The one we didn’t expect after so many unsuccessful fertility treatments. The one we never imagined after so many failed adoptions.
But he was our gift, an unexpected grace from Jesus.
Sometimes, though, if I’m being honest, life feels hard. It feels unfair.
Why does Jonah have to struggle with things that typical little boys don’t struggle with?
Why does it need to be difficult for him to make friends?
Why can’t he understand that some of the choices he makes will get him into trouble?
Why did God allow this thing called “autism” to enter our lives?
So many whys…
But then I watch as Jonah builds elaborate creations with his legos.
I watch as he celebrates his birthday with new friends from school.
I watch as he reads to his sister.
I feel his sticky arms around my neck as he gives the sweetest hugs.
And I know God has a plan.
Today I am grateful for this beautiful boy the Lord has given us. I’m grateful for every difficult moment because those hard times just make the sweet moments even sweeter. I’m grateful that God gives me grace when I don’t deserve it.
I’m grateful the Lord doesn’t give up on us.
Looking at this precious, beautiful, smart, and entertaining child, my heart bursts as I think about how much I love him.
I know God has big plans for this little boy.
And I can’t wait to watch him fly.
