We celebrate life’s mystery and wonder. . . Who is this tiny being? What will she love? How will she dream and dance and change her little part of the world?
I am awestruck at the thought of being entrusted with a life to love and tend and help to discover who she is. What did the Father imagine as he knit her together? What special treasures did he bury for her to discover and share? What dreams did he plant? What longings inspire?
And I wonder. . . How do you help a child delight in her beauty and uniqueness without nurturing self-centeredness?
You do it as God does: lavishly celebrating who she is. . . and then helping her see the treasure in others too.
The little girl twirls into the room, all frills in her white sundress.
“Daddy, didn’t Jesus make me beautiful?”
“Yes he did, Treasure. And precious, and wonderful and I love you so much!”
And I see the circle of Love that puts us each at the center. The Mighty God begins the celebration. It starts quietly, gently, whispering private delight. A special name. Secret thoughts just for her. The little girl is held close, quieted, renewed in his Love. She snuggles in. The singing begins, soft at first then rising, swelling, as she is lifted high, celebrated and enjoyed and cherished. She is his, a true masterpiece. She bears his mark, reflects his image in a way like no other. She is loved. Loved! By the One at the center of the universe. The dance goes on and on, drawing her deeper into Love. And as the Mighty One sets her down, she becomes part of the Circle of Love drawing others in and lifting them up to see who they are.
“Isn’t it fun to know you are beautiful? How can we help your friend know she is beautiful too?”
“My soul, bless God,don't forget a single blessing! . . .He crowns you with love and mercy — a paradise crown.He wraps you in goodness — beauty eternal.He renews your youth — you're always young in his presence.”(Psalm 103:2-5, the Message)
Congratulations, Jon and Katie and Liam. Welcome, precious little girl.
