You entered our world on a bright, beautiful summer day today, June 18, 2019. I appreciate you being born – now we can officially know what your name is. Picking that has been quite an adventure. Finally, your mom and dad decided they’d know your name when they saw you. Now we all know! And I must add, one look at you and as far as I’m concerned, they could name you anything and it wouldn’t measure up to how beautiful you are.
You carry a name that has been worn proudly by others before you. One was a famous outlaw in the old west, but he doesn’t count. Your most famous name ancestor was a songwriter and musician who has entertained multiple generations. Your middle name – Michael – comes from your wonderful grandfather and means “Who is like God?” It is also the name of one of the Lord’s most powerful war-angels in the Bible. That’s how I see you today – a creative, singing warrior, declaring the worthiness of your God at the top of your lungs. (Yeah, we heard you all the way down the hall.)
You were born at an interesting time. Right now, 24 different Democrats are running against each other for the privilege of challenging President Donald Trump in the next election. Don’t worry – you’ll have time to catch up. In fact, by the time the election gets here, you’ll be walking, talking, and in some places you may be able to actually vote.
I should probably say something about your brothers. Both of them are incredibly smart, funny, and like video games. They also like music, sports, reading, eating, and pretty much anything but girls. (Well, Cason likes girls and they like him.) They are delighted that you are here. They can teach you many things… some of which you may need to learn from other people.
Your parents are amazing people. Both have devoted their lives to serving God and loving people. Your father is a gifted leader who has just begun a new chapter in his ministry. He’ll soon be taking you to a place called Levelland. He will teach you many things, not the least of which is how to be patient and kind to other people.
Your mother has also committed her life to making a difference in others’ lives. Every day she works as a counselor to offer healing and hope to hurting people. She’s also an amazing cook and is scary-smart. One of her superpowers is reading, and I happen to think she’s a gifted writer as well.
As committed as your parents are to you and your brothers, and to each other and the world they live in, the most important commitment your parents have made is to serve and follow Jesus Christ. They seek to live out their faith every day and inspire others to do the same. This faith and commitment make them people worth following, loving, and liking. You are richly blessed to call them Mommy and Daddy.
You were a little busy at the time, so you probably weren’t aware of the hovering presence outside your room, waiting to hear you cry for the first time. That was your Grammy. And for you, my friend, that will be an adventure category all its own.
Other people in our family are so excited to meet you. Your mom has a twin sister who is fit to be tied that she can’t be here. And you have other uncles, aunts, grandparents, and cousins who, in addition to your brothers, have blazed a kid trail for you. The fact that you are number 11 – and the ninth boy – for us make you no less special, loved, or important. It just means you have more names to learn.
Over time you will learn some things about your heritage and other things about your hope. You’ll experience the culture of a people whose heart is as big as their state. You learn about places symbolized by Chaparrals and Red Raiders, a place called Hillside… and a farm in Alabama. More than anything, you will know the deep heritage of a family who is far from perfect, but invested in loving their God and each other.
You’ll find here the freedom to fail. You’ll also find a challenge to grow. You’ll find the freedom to be uniquely you. You’ll also find a challenge to rise to your own standard of excellence. But whether you fail or succeed, one fact is already settled. We will love you unconditionally. Delight in you completely. Always welcome you joyfully.
So welcome, little creative, singing warrior. We are all singing with you, “Who is like our God?” because you’re finally here.
Now let’s have some fun.
Congratulations to all the Wood family at the arrival of beautiful Cole! Let us all sing praises and give thanks to God for all He has done.
Blessings, Andy!
Love this so much. Welcome to the world Cole!
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