dearest S.E.,
It has been such a pleasure to be your mother.
I remembered vividly the day you were born, and aptly on the Labor Day!
Most of all was that God was there even though the Gynecologist was not present.
His grace and mercy was evidence as a purple but healthy baby was delivered.
My evening devotion on that day was Ezekiel 48:35, Jehovah-shammah (The Lord is there) - What a wonderful Name and such a comforting promise! Thus your name means singing/praising God’s grace, for indeed you were God’s gift to us.
I cherish all the “first times” in your life, and I have fond memories of your early childhood. We spent many hours making all sort of things from play dough.
From an early age you like to tinkle on the toy piano or strumming on the plastic guitar. In recent years, it was always pleasurable for me to listen to whatever instruments you played. Your talents and gifts reflect God’s creativity and generosity.
I have always been proud of you as there were many occasions when you were recognized publicly. But I was proud of you too even when no one noticed the simple acts of kindness you showed ever so readily.
I still remembered when we were walking down the street in Vladivostok, the South Eastern seaport of Russia. There were old men sleeping at the bottom of the steps, under the bridge and at the side of the road. You were asking a lot of questions about them and you wondered why no one cared for them. You were only three then. Your compassionate heart shined through in many instances over the years; be it for the less fortunate or for the fawn that was ran over by a car.
My son, may your heart never grow cold or harden for those around you; for our God is compassionate, slow to anger and quick to show mercy. (Psalms 86:15)
Today marked the first time for me to miss your birthday. It is my prayer that you will remember that Jehovah-shammah is also known as Jehovah-jireh (God will provide); Jehovah-Rohi (The Lord is my Shepherd) and El Shaddai (God Almighty). May God reveal himself through his names to you as you grow into your own man.
love, mama
