Purpose. We all need it. We all seek it. We feel fulfilled by it when we think we have found it. It just fills us up. The need for it surfaces in those wee toddler years, when we get a round of applause just for throwing our own diaper in the garbage can. And it continues until the end of our life on this earth. Without purpose, why would I be here? Why would you be here? Why would any of it matter at all? It wouldn't.
From the time our little ones are old enough to understand, we begin to talk about God's purpose for their life. We don't pretend to ultimately know what that purpose is, as that purpose will change with age, abilities, knowledge . . . and direction. We do point out their natural talents, and even their weaknesses that can turn into talents, and how God may use them someday. We do encourage much prayer, and we pray individually for each of them, so that each may find the purpose God has in store for them. That God-given purpose, however, is oftentimes under-valued, as it does not always equate to things that are highly regarded in this society. An individuals' purpose may not lead one to higher education, big wealth, and a notable name. Some of the greatest saints in centuries past were illiterate . . .but still did great things. The way our society functions today, purpose is oftentimes associated with productivity...what output is our input producing??? Once we get to this mindset, then we start to look at some individuals as not deserving a place on this earth, and we begin to regard them as less valuable. This would include the sick, elderly, and individuals with disabilities and special needs. What can they do for a society? What can they do for me?
Our Luke is now a busy and determined little four year old. His chromosomal special ingredients do not hold him back from running, throwing a ball, climbing up and down stairs, or cuddling. He has not been blessed with the ability to speak however, as of yet. I've had countless dreams of him speaking, and in my dreams he always has lovely things to say. And we often joke that someday he is going to start speaking sentences, and tell us things like "I really never liked your green smoothies mom, I just drank them so as not to hurt your feelings". :-) We also acknowledge that he may never actually communicate with words. We may never hear him say "I love you". So does he have purpose? What will his output be? And what if he also did not have use of his arms and legs? Could there be any output at all? Purpose?
The answer is LOVE. All human beings from conception are put here with purpose. I believe strongly that even if a baby never gets to take it's first breath, there is purpose. If we had not lost a daughter before she was due to be born, then we would not have our son from China, who was sitting and waiting in an orphanage. We heard the whisper, then the shout. Her purpose was to push us forward in confidence. And then there's Luke. Luke is a hugger. Luke's hug ministry on this earth is of much higher consequence than anything I have yet done. I have seen him bring countless grown men to tears . . complete strangers, as he held out his little arms to be held for that tight hug. And he doesn't hug everyone . . .it's as though he senses who most needs one in that moment. It's quite amazing! It's silent, but powerful. Yet if a human being does not even have the ability to hug, or speak, or even hold their head up to look you in the eye with affection, where is purpose? Their purpose may be for you to love them. Their purpose may be to teach you virtue. Their purpose may be to show you just how much your Heavenly Father loves you. Unconditional. Whole. Agape LOVE.
It is both a priveledge and a blessing to raise each of our children, regardless of abilities. Each has value and purpose.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We pray that each of our children will be lead into the purpose that You have carved out for them while on this earth. We pray that their eyes will be opened to Your truth, love, and guidance in carrying out this purpose. May their focus always be on You and Your goodness, and if ever they are knocked off course, we pray that they are lead back on the path to Your will for them, and to Your boundless eternal LOVE. Amen.
