My mother always said that we human beings get real about life at two times: when somebody we love dies, and when a baby is born. I’ve lived long enough now to learn that she was right. I have handed off the hand of those I love into the hand of their Maker, and I’ve sat by our two daughters and our son’s sweet wife when they were giving birth to our seven grandchildren.
I think of those plastic pet doors people put over openings to their garages so that puppies can go in and out in the winter. It seems that in watching someone I love pass into eternity or a new baby entering this world from eternity, there is a moment when the flap of eternity opens, and the sparkling dust and the warmth of somewhere-else gets on me just enough to change my perspective for the rest of my life.
This glimpse of forever must be celebrated, for we who stand and watch can never be the same; we have stood on holy ground. The birth our babies with eternal souls is call for the community that will surround these children to commit to be there, not just when the children are little and cute, but also when they go through the difficult or awkward passages of life—to love, to encourage, to support, and to patiently nurture them to wholeness. Together, let’s bless this child.
If you want to share this blessing with anyone expecting or welcoming a new baby, it is available in gift book below.