It seems like forever since our last visit.  Zaden has probably gained 5 lbs since the last time I blogged to all you eager readers.  Man!  I probably gained 5 lbs since we last talked.  Anyway, needless to say things are going well, and Zaden and I are growing well.  Kari and I just watch in amazement as our little infant is quickly turning into a little boy.  My grandma, grandpa, mom, and dad always called me their little man until....well until just the other day....I guess mom and dad still call me that.  Anyway, it always made me feel good so I will probably pass it down to Zaden.  Maybe I will wait till he is at least 6 months old.

"He's got the whole world in his hands, He's got the whole world in his hands, He's got the whole world in his hands, He's got the whole wide world in his hands."

I generally perceive this song as one of the many children's songs that we occasionally sing when we do VBS, teach a kids class, or put our kids to sleep at night.  Recently, the words have taken a stronger meaning in my thoughts.

You see, there are two young families that were or currently are in our Bible class at church that have an infant child in the intensive care unit of the hospital.  Both babies are in a difficult fight for their lives.  Their parents have had to watch, wait, and pray many times just that their child would make it thru the night to battle another day. 

Even though Zaden himself had a stay in the NICU, I really can't begin to understand everything they are going thru because their child's difficulty has come so unexpectedly and with great uncertainty.  I am humbled by these situations not merely because I don't have the knowledge or ability to fix their medical problems.  I know that there are many talented doctors that have abilities to help heal and care for even the weakest of infants.  I am humbled, because I know how messed up things would become if I was in charge of everything and if the world depended on me. 

I know that only God has the power and the ability to use even the most difficult and worst situations to bring blessings into people's lives.  I know that only God could surround these families with an amazing hug of encouragement and love from their brothers and sisters in Christ.  Only God could use a simple set of blog entries shared by a father to exemplify faith in adversity and bring amazing encouragement to all of its readers.  I know I am leaving out so much more that God is doing but I will let you explore for yourself, if you want to read their story see below....

Ben's website: http://seekthefather.blogspot.com/

Harper's website: www.caringbridge.org/visit/harperhawley

Please remember these little ones in your prayers as well as their families.

thankfully in His hands,

Ira