Tuesday, January 23

The Gift of Sons

Narrative Lectionary Daily Devotions written by Kace Leetch from Clergy Stuff.

If you read these daily devotions regularly, you will know I am quite intentional about inclusivity, especially when it comes to gender, race, ability, and size. Today's reading celebrates sons, and although I fully celebrate sons and daughters (and I have both of my own), I thought it would be cool today to celebrate boys. 

David wrote the psalms at a time when enemies were plenty. He also wrote at a time when families were not always civil to each other. Loyalty was a gift not always given, but treasured. For a warrior to bear sons meant the continuation of the bloodline, and also the strengthening of the next generation's armies. Sons meant strength, abundance, power, and honor.

Sons come in every temperament and personality. Some are tough and protective. Others are gentle and compassionate. Some roll in the mud, and others organize their toys. I was blessed to have both. My first was quiet and loving, compassionate, snuggly, and thoughtful. Even in the womb he rolled gently like waves on an ocean. My other son in the womb poked and pushed like a whack-a-mole game. He was active and fearless. He would do belly flops off the back of the couch, then get up and do it again.

Now, as young adults, both of my boys are a beautiful blend of all the best traits. My eldest has survived many medical setbacks, struggles in school, and broken relationships. And through it all, he has never lost sight of who he is and how he wants to show up in the world. He is wiser than most his age and looks out for his friends. He's even still good friends with his ex. His bosses love him, and he still likes to spend time with his mom. :) !

My middle has also endured medical challenges, and after recently graduating, he is struggling to find himself. But he is also the most chill kid you will ever meet. When all hell breaks loose around him, he keeps calm and is the strength others rely on. He's got more friends than the rest of the family combined, a girlfriend we all adore, and a sense of humor that will knock you off balance if you're not prepared for it. (He still likes his mom, too!)  ;)

Yes, sons are a gift from God. When we can encourage them to be who God has created them to be, and then give them space to explore how they want to show up in the world, then we can help shape men who will change the world for the better.

Narrative Lectionary Text: Psalm 127:3-5

Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord,
   the fruit of the womb a reward. 
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
   are the sons of one’s youth. 
Happy is the man who has
   his quiver full of them.
He shall not be put to shame
   when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.