Look Who's Forty!

What a special day this is! Forty years ago today, the world welcomed "Little Luke." He started out "little," but he is larger than life to so many of us. I am at a loss for words as I look back over his life in pictures. I just realized that for over half of those forty years, we have been in each other's lives... how cool is that? He amazes me every day with his wisdom, tenderness, sense of humor and his "agape", demonstrated love for us. He loves His Lord Jesus, and the way he humbles himself before Him is evident in every area of his life. As I look at these pictures of him as a little boy, I am struck once again with the knowledge that my parents were diligently praying for that little boy... the one who would eventually sweep their little girl off her feet and be the godly leader of her home and family. God is so faithful. So, so faithful.

Second grade baseball picture

College graduation, May 1990

Praying with a medical patient in Ghana, June 2004

Father and son, at his baby sister's wedding, October 2006

I haven't been there from the beginning, but here are some words from someone who has... your Mom: "I knew you were special when you were born. Your cousin even commented that you have been grown up since day one. Even through the hard times, God has been so faithful to you. You have been a blessing to me and our family since the beginning. I am so proud. Your strength during hard times has been my strength. At family gatherings everybody looks to you to come up with words of wisdom, and can always call you when they are troubled. Maybe we should make some "WWLD" bracelets! Happy Birthday, and thank you Jesus for your life. You will always be my "Little Luke." I love you forever and one day more, Mom."

It's funny... it's your birthday, and yet I feel like I got the gift. I can't wait to see what the next forty years will bring (even though you are clearly aging better than I am... ;) Happy, happy birthday! I love you!