I’m not really the type to get hyped up about Valentine’s Day. I don’t make a big deal about roses, chocolate, stuffed animals and candlelight. I have nothing against them, but I don’t really register Valentine’s Day on my radar. Maybe when the kiddos are older I’ll do more to make it a special day. Today, however, was special thanks to my littlest Valentine. We dedicated Graham at our church this morning. Baby dedications are a way of saying that we plan to raise our boys to know the Lord and we pray that they will personally come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. It’s a promise to our family and our church. It’s a sign of our intent. It’s also a chance for our family and friends to show us their support in this endeavor. It’s a sweet thing and I am blessed to be surrounded by such loving, encouraging people. Our boys are prayed for and care for by the sweetest people. It truly takes a village to raise kids and I am thankful for the village we are a part of. My guys are so little right now. Owen loves the song “Jesus Loves the Little Children” and reads his toddler Bible with us. It’s the beginning of what I hope will be a love for the Lord. I pray that both my boys will see God’s love through their father and I. I pray my influence in their life will point them towards Jesus. I don’t always feel like I do the best at being “Jesus” to them, but I am sure trying. Parenting is such intentional business. I don’t want to hope for the best and leave things up to chance. I want to be a voice guiding them to listen for the Holy Spirit. I want my words and my actions to draw them to Christ. I know that I am their primary spiritual influence and I don’t take that role lightly. I am blessed to have a family that will encourage them in this same way. Many voices in unison are stronger, louder. I’m glad that I am not alone in pointing the down the right path. My church congregation is also there cheering us on and speaking life and love to our kids. It is a privilege and an honor to do life with such extraordinary people. Today we committed Graham to the Lord and pledged that we would do our best to guide him. It’s a sacred, holy work. Not for the faint of heart. I might stress and worry about the future of my sons, but I remember that they belong to God first and foremost. He is on their side and he is fighting for them. He will never fail them. I pray that he gives me the wisdom and the words and the patience and the grace to raise these little ones into men who love God and love others. What a journey we have set before us!
I would also like to thank my in-laws for hosting a little celebration gathering after the baby dedication. I appreciate them opening their home and letting the chaos ensue! It was a great afternoon spent with the best family ever!
Also thank you to all of the relatives who travelled great distances to join us today. We appreciate you taking the time to celebrate Graham. It means so much to us!
Thankful for the prayers of these loved ones!
Look at the family we have surrounding us and supporting us. Graham is blessed and loved by the best!
Amy Scott's Thoughts 