Ian was on his way out the door to see the latest science fiction movie when I suggested having breakfast together. I work the night shift and will be back in bed by noon, so I probably won’t get to spend much time with him today. He’s not the kind that needs, or even wants a big party. He wants to be with those he loves, and he really doesn’t care doing what. That’s my Ian. And yes, I’m proud.
This video (below) of him makes me cry every time. I get choked up right at the part where he says, “If you are interested in getting involved in youth ministry or discipling youth”……and then he lets out a little chuckle. The reason I get choked up is because that is my true Ian coming out….. It comes from a part of his heart that God replaced with HIS heart, and HIS will, and sometimes those things are the most difficult to put into words for others to understand.
I won’t bore you with the details of how he spent years wanting to be an accountant, a year of scholarship competitions to multiple universities, and all of the failed attempts at getting any money toward college. I am still left with the example he set for me when he continued through all of those failed attempts, to write a check tithing 10% of his teeny tiny little car wash job paycheck. He trusted God. He knew God was going to come through and he just kept seeking him.
Through a twist of events that included a trip to Georgia to learn about human trafficking for 4 days, a friendship with a pastor in Alabama, and being given the opportunity to lead a mission trip out of state, Ian heard God speak to him loud and clear. The next thing we knew, we were on our way to Chicago to check out the possibility of attending Moody Bible College. He was accepted that fall, and off to the windy city I sent my son. Even the story of how the funds became available is so “of God!”
I have watched him grow in so many ways. I get to hear his heart every Monday when we have our phone dates. I’ve met the incredible friends and people he has wisely chosen to surround himself with. I’ve watched him go through some of life’s ups and downs with integrity and class. I’ve watched him become an incredible young man I’ve always been proud to call mine, and today especially!
His time at Moody is so quickly coming to a close with only a little more than a year left. Someone asked me what his plans are for when he graduates the other day. I laughed and answered that I did not know. That does not make me nervous at all. This son of mine – He follows Jesus with his whole heart, and when you do that – worrying is not even a thought. I’ve watched his life fall right into place while he has chosen to be obedient to GOD’s will instead of his own. Together, we have watched God rearrange his entire life, and all of his priorities, in order to prepare him for whatever plans the Lord has for him. I can hardly wait to see what’s up God’s sleeve! And THAT is where MY chuckle comes from 🙂
So yes, I celebrate my son’s birth today. But in all honesty, I find myself more joyful and satisfied and relieved and in awe that he had a RE-BIRTH. And once again, I find myself thankful for all of the unexpected people who came alongside my Ian and, in his words, “poured into him on a daily basis.” In doing so, they fulfilled the great commission!
“Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:16-20
I love you so much Ian. And no, I will NEVER forget the day you were born, your full head of hair, your snuggles, all of the years watching you grow up, tucking you into bed each night, building forts on rainy days and watching Disney movies, and all of our other memories. I was so glad you were a boy, and am so glad you call your brother Rory your very best friend. That just makes my day.
I love you with ALL my heart….
xo Mum
Checked my calendar this afternoon and saw IAN written on today’s square. Looked up the phone number that I have had for Ian for a few years now. Not sure if it still worked but called that number anyway. Left a message that I am hoping was for Ian. I pray that I had the correct number and that he actually got my message. Hope it was a great day and that he has many many more wonderful years ahead. Only God knows where this young man will end up and what he will be doing with his life BUT I do know that it will be amazing where ever and whatever God has planned for him. Good job Mom. You have raised 2 wonderful men who make you and ALL who know them so proud. Praise God for you and your “boys”. Love you ALL – don’t forget Holly and little Miss Lyla. What an awesome family.