Some Faith

I am completely and utterly heartbroken this morning. I got the news just after midnight last night that a child, one who hadn't yet learned many of the joys of life, had passed away. Luke Sexton lived only a few days in this world, yet he and his God-loving parents don't even know the tremendous impact they have made on lives everywhere. Sure, babies are born with health problems and pass away just days after birth all the time. Sure, some babies never even make it to their own birthday. However, this story is different. This story involves two young parents totally distraught at the sight of their baby boy born with a heart condition, that wouldn't give up, and furthermore trusted God fully. It is inspiring to say the least. I don't know how I would have handled the same situation myself. Blog posts written daily, texts and e-mails spread around, and Bible verses about perseverance and a "good" God were the Sexton's answer.

I have been burdened for baby Luke and this family myself, and the character and faith mustered by a young Christian couple have made me well up inside. How could a couple stricken with such bad luck be so optimistic? How could they choose to see the sunshine in the rain?

Luke 1:37 stands as the verse on the blog for baby Luke's status updates, and as a perfect theme for a pitiful situation. It reads: "For nothing is impossible with God." It is straight to the point, bold, and hopeful. Security is found in this verse. However, now, at a time when it seems that it was not God's will to impact the world with another day for baby Luke, I turn to a verse I know so well; a verse I turned to when I was dealing with loss. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those that love him, who have been called according to his purpose." We have no idea what good can come from this. Our incredibly feeble minds can't comprehend the plan God has in mind for the Sextons. I do know however, that He won't ever put on us more than we can bear, and from the heart I know that the Sextons love the Lord. If there is anything apparent from this whole period, it is that Luke had a fighting spirit and the courage to stick it out as long as he did, and his parents dearly love and depend on Christ. I think this can be a strong example for the rest of us to take a look at our own faith and see how we measure up today. How much do we trust Him and His plan?

We love you baby Luke.