Being a Dad...Again!

Today is our first day home from the hospital with our new son, Elijah Thomas.
Coming home from the hospital is not new, we've done that two other times. Trying to figure out that first night with a new baby is not new either. Neither is looking down at a little bundle and seeing an amazing miracle that God placed in two parent's hands; however, each time is just as exciting as the first.

Last week I was at Falls Creek with our youth group and I had the opportunity to re-read the Old Testament narratives about the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 17ff), and I hope that I can lead this new little boy to become a man that seeks God as the prophet did. The prophet Elijah did something that God called him to do even though it put him at odds with kings and nations. He fearlessly sought God and worked miracles that glorified God. He was not perfect though, for even he struggled with feelings of inadequacy just as every believer experiences when they realize just how small they are in the midst of their surroundings and their God. But God spoke to him in a still small voice and revealed His amazing plan to Elijah. By the way, the name "Elijah" in Hebrew means "My God is Yahweh."

Elijah's two sister, Emma and Evy, are extremely excited about their new "play thing." Keeping an eye on them will be fun. Emma understands most of what is going on, but Evy does not. Even though Evy does not express any animosity towards her new brother, she still displays some jealousy, so Shannon and I are trying to be sensitive to both of the girls.

My prayer today is that God would help me to be a good husband to my wife, a good father to my children, and a good pastor to my church. I also pray that my attitude and will would be conformed to that of the Father.