Answered Prayer

Fifteen and a half years ago, our first treasure was born.  There were tears of joy on that day.  Chris and I prayed from that time on that the One who knit her together in my womb would work in her heart and become the desire of her heart.

Last night that prayer was answered, and there were once again tears of joy.  Michaela made the bold and well thought out decision that God needed to be the King of her life and that she wanted to always serve and love Him.  She said, "I want to be a Christian!"

It has felt like a long time coming for us as parents, especially considering the fact that two of her younger siblings made that decision at much younger ages.  But this we know, each child has to come to that decision in their own time, whether it's to accept or deny that God is their Creator and King.

Michaela has always loved Jesus.  She has never known life without Him.  From the first day of her life she heard "Jesus Loves Me" sung to her.  We read Bible stories together.  We took her to church when she was just three days old (crazy first time mom!).  She has been shown The Way all of her life.  Yet, there comes a time when that childhood faith has to become ones own.  We have every confidence that Michaela has made a sure and fast decision as a young adult.  

We are so very proud of Michaela's maturity.  She has always had a caring and sweet heart.  She is helpful beyond measure around the house and with her siblings.  She sees something that needs to be done, and does it.  She responsibly manages her time and works to accomplish her goals, whether big or small.  She has a God-given gift for serving others and we look forward to seeing how God uses her in the years ahead.  While Michaela's decision may not show a major change in her lifestyle (as she has always tried to obey Him), we know that the change of heart, giving herself totally to God, will result in even more growth and maturity.

Michaela expressed her desire to have Grandpa Clark baptize her, as he has had special influence in her life.  Unfortunately Grandpa won't be here in the States until June!  But this is important to her, so we will look forward to the day of her baptism and rejoice all the more.

Tonight we celebrated this most important decision of Michaela's life.  We are so very happy.  "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4)  Michaela, Dad and Mom love you from the depths of our hearts, so much so that it hurts, but our love is like nothing compared to the Father's great love for you!  xoxo