Jesus Loves Me, This I Know!

Once again, we are overwhelmed by the love that has been shown to us. Throughout the past year, we have been loved in beautiful ways by our family, friends, and even strangers. And we have desperately needed each one!

Bob and I moved to our little town in October 2004. We knew no one. I was newly pregnant with Robbie, and we were both starting new jobs. Our first Sunday in town, a church was recommended to us by one of Bob's partners at the firm. We went to the Sunday school class that morning and were welcomed with open arms. This was a group of young couples who, like us, were just starting their families. We quickly grew to love this group and they became our family.

As soon as they heard the news about Robbie, this group ran to us and surrounded us with prayer and love. And they have not moved. Though it has been a year and a half since Robbie went to heaven, they continue to pray for us, remember the special and hard days, and send us notes of encouragment.

Yesterday, the group presented us with a tree that was planted at our church in memory of Robbie.


We all gathered at the church in the morning. Bob and I really didn't know what to expect. But as soon as we arrived and saw all of these beautiful people that have loved us so well, we were overwhelmed. Neither one of us expected to be so emotional, but we had a good and hard cry with these brothers and sisters. They had organized a dedication service which included reading Scripture passages, prayers, and remembering Robbie. All of the children (the number of children in this group is rapidly growing) gathered around the tree and sang "Jesus Loves Me."



Then they presented us with the plaque and the book, "The Tale of Three Trees." The book tells the story of a small tree that wants to grow up and become a large redwood. Instead, he is cut down -- a time that seems too early and his life seems too short. But he is used to make Jesus' cross. This is to remind us that although Robbie seemed to be taken from us too early and his life cut short, he (and his story) are still being used to accomplish great things. He is a Mighty Warrior.



There are no words to fully describe how grateful we are for our family and friends. This love is carrying us through the difficult days. And, while pondering on the many ways people have loved us, I realized that it is not just love from others. But it is a testament of how much God loves us. His Spirit continues to prompt people to love and encourage us in beautiful ways. He is wrapping His mighty arms around us through you all. Thank you for the reminder that Jesus Loves Me!