*I didn’t ask Kim if I could post this, so maybe you shouldn’t mention it to her. OK? Thanks.
Our house was filled with the sound of laughter and celebration tonight. We have a friend who has had a rough go of it for all of her 19 years of life. Seriously, you wouldn’t wish the things that have happened to her on your worst enemy. But she’s full of joy, loves people, and has a contagious smile. It was her birthday today, and in talking about it with Kim a couple of days ago, she mentioned that she never had a sweet 16 birthday party.
No one celebrated her.
So Kim called a few friends, we sent out a couple of invites via the social network known as Bookface. Balloons were ordered, gifts were purchased, and some delicious foodage was prepared. As the folks began to gather, the celebration commenced.
We gathered to pray a blessing over this young lady before we ate, and I felt the presence of the Lord.
I know that one birthday party does very little to erase the years of hurt. Scars are souvenirs you never lose. But tonight there is a young lady sleeping contentedly, knowing that she is loved and celebrated, that there are people who value her, who will sacrifice for her, who will fight for her.
And the HOPE that we have is that Jesus will heal the wounds, drawing her under the protection of his arm, and that she will know the love of Father God. He is the Redeemer, and we have his promise:
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Romans 8:18
I believe that the day is coming when God will set everything right; all hurts will be healed, injustice will be overthrown, and God’s glory will be revealed. Until that day comes, we’re going to keep praying, keep asking God for a breakthrough, and keep throwing parties to celebrate people.
5 Comments
amanda sublett · June 8, 2011 at 6:39 am
just add this to the list of why I think your wife is amazing – absolutely amazing!
Malea · June 8, 2011 at 11:14 am
your wife IS pretty spectacular… one of the many reasons why she is so loved by many many many people 🙂
Jo Ellen Weaverling · June 8, 2011 at 11:26 am
What a great example of a Godly woman serving Jesus!!
Jill Ewing-D · June 8, 2011 at 12:15 pm
What passion and compassion Kim has, her heart overflowns and spills out onto so many. You are blessed Stac!!
Anne Neuhaus · June 9, 2011 at 1:20 pm
She was telling me about it days ago. She was so excited to go to your house and would not stop talking about you and Kim. You both have been such a big, positive influence in her life!