The Abundant Wife

8 days overdue!

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.  She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”  Luke 2:6-7

Dear Oliver,

Today you are nine days overdue!  I certainly never thought I’d still be pregnant with you by December 13.  On the other hand, I am glad that you have waited.  It’s given me time to finish my Christmas shopping, write letters, bake cookies, and get over a head cold.  I’ve asked my mom to take photos of me pregnant, and asked your dad to scan your 21 week sonogram photos into our computer.  My mom has returned from her four day trip to Kansas, and your dad doesn’t have any substitute teaching jobs scheduled until the end of the week.   So all is ready for your imminent arrival!

This year more than any other, I have been thinking about the Christmas story and especially the situation of Jesus’ family.  In many ways their story is similar to ours.  As Mary waited for her first son Jesus to be born, so I have waited for you to be born.  She and Joseph made a long journey from Nazareth to Joseph’s hometown in Bethlehem, and your dad and I made a long journey from Minnesota to our hometown in Maryland.  Although there is room for you in this inn (my parents’ home), there are only two rooms, so your first bedroom will be a large walk-in closet and your manger (bed) will be a green pack ‘n’ play.  And while I don’t expect shepherds and wise men to follow a star to your bedside, you will be surrounded by loving family and friends who will no doubt shower you with Christmas gifts!

When Mary is pregnant with Jesus, she travels to the hill country of Judea to visit her cousin Elizabeth.  Elizabeth is delighted to see Mary and exclaims, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!”  (Luke 1:42). Your dad and I feel the same way about you.  Already you are a blessed child, and we feel blessed to be your parents.  You are our first son, and the first grandson for all four grandparents.  You are a reminder that God has remembered us, even in our humble state, and His mercy extends to all who fear Him.  Generation to generation glorifies the Lord at Christmas time, as our spirits rejoice in the birth of His son.  God has done many great things for us, and one of those great things is you.  You will be the best Christmas gift we receive this year!  We are so excited to meet you, and to share with you the greatest love story ever told:  “For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believed in Him would not die, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Oliver, my peacemaker, may your birth and your life always remind us of the One who gave us peace on earth.

Love Always,

Mommy and Daddy

“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.  From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.  His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.”  Luke 1:46-50