A Small Miracle

On August 7th, my life was instantly and irreversibly changed.  Little Sawyer, our first grandchild, was born, weighing in at 6 lbs, 6 ounces and measuring 18.9 inches long.  I am in awe of this little newborn's perfect form and the miracle of new life.

One can't help but stare in wonder at the beauty of a newborn's face. Though his features will change over time, and we really don't know who he will resemble as an older child or an adult, right now Sawyer is simply a perfect example of God's brilliant, creative artistry.

Sawyer's doctor explained to his Mama and me that babies are born about 2 months too early, justifying her statement with facts about not being able to sleep and needing to be held close to mom or dad's heart and needing to be fed so often.  But, I disagree.  I think God knew exactly what he was doing and did so with intention and perfect timing.

What better way for parents to form an unbreakable bond of unconditional love for their child than to have a perfect tiny human, with soft delicate features that we know will only be visible for a short window of time, utterly dependent on upon them for comfort, food, warmth and love?

God knew that the relief of hearing her baby's very first cry would soothe the mother's tremendous pain during childbirth.  He knew she would take one look at her baby and her heart would convince her aching body that he was worth every pain she endured.  I saw that on my daughter's face in the photos taken as she gazed upon her son's face for the first time. There was no sign of the great pain of labor on her countenance, though it had happened only seconds ago.  There was only the beauty of love and joy radiating from her smile and in the tears rolling down her face.

As humans in this complicated, busy age in which we live, we are often guilty of focusing on the wrong things. We don't pay attention to the small important tasks and get easily distracted and sidetracked, spending way too much time with issues and tasks that don't add value to our lives or the lives of others. But, a baby can change that.  God made them dependent on us partly because He knew how we are and that we needed a "nudge" to help us remain attentive to the needs of our children. New mothers barely have time to do laundry let alone sit around and waste time watching TV or spending hours on the phone gossiping with girlfriends.

So, moms and dads, spend time caring for this new, perfect creation who brings with him the possibilities of a better world in which we spend time caring for others and nurturing that which is perfectly created by God, but dependent upon us for life.

Welcome to the world Sawyer!  You are perfect!  You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a God who knew you and loved you before you were ever in your mother's womb.  You are deeply loved by your mother and father who will care for you and try to give you everything you need to make the world a better place.

I love you so much!

Gammy