"And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel...whose names are in the Book of Life. Rejoice in the Lord always, Again I say rejoice." Philippians 4:3-4
A few weeks ago, I was surprised at the Congressional Angels in Adoption Banquet, when I was called up on stage, together with Kathleen Strottman, and presented with a beautifully framed and gold-lined copy of the Congressional Record which told the story of the founding of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and my involvement in it. Because the award was a surprise, the only family member who was attending this tenth anniversary banquet of CCAI with me was my nine-year old son, Cole. Cole and I used the opportunity to go to DC for the event and also as a chance to visit the National Archives and the Botanical Gardens for a homeschool educational outing.
It was really special for Cole when Senator Landrieu was presenting the award to Kathleen and me because she said these words directly to our eldest children, "Grace and Cole, you should both be very proud of your moms!"
Then, after returning to our banquet table and having the opportunity to look at what was written in the congressional record, Cole wanted me to explain to him what it was all about. (He just recently found out that I was not always a stay-at-home homeschool mom; so, seeing me receive an award was way outside of his box of understanding about me.)
As I looked into his face, I could see that he was still beaming because of what he had witnessed and specifically because the Senator had said his name from the stage. "Mom, the Senator said my name from stage in front of all these people!"
So, as I searched for words to explain to Cole, what came from my mouth surprised even me. "Yes, Cole it is really special to have your name said from stage in front of all these people and it is special for my name to be written in the congressional record, but you know what is far more amazing - that our names are written in the Lamb's book of life!'
And as I said it my eyes began to well up with tears. I became overwhelmed by the comfort these words spoke to my spirit! THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE!
Then it hit me - I mean it really hit me - perhaps for the first time! My name is in the Lamb's book of life. My son's name is in the Lamb's book of life! As lovely as a worldly honor as this is, IT IS NOTHING COMPARED TO THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE!
Then, with more excitement than I could appropriately express in a setting like that, I repeated it again, "Cole, can you believe that God - the One who created everything and everyone in the world, put your name and my name and anyone else's name who would believe in His Book of life for eternity!"
I doubt my son felt the same feeling I did from these words at least not with the great intensity with which I was feeling it, but one thing is sure, Cole knew that for his mom, the recognition I had just received could not compare to the joy that it brought me to know that our names are in the Lamb's book of life!
Wendy Cosby (founding program director, CCAI) Jelani Freeman (FYI for Senator Clinton)
Kerry, you deserved that special recognition and honor and it is lovely to see you and Wendy together in that photo. I look at my now 10-year-old amazing Cambria and Cadin and frequently thank God for all the angels that made their vital part in our family happen - despite some tremendous odds.
Cathy
Blessed Mom to Cambria, Cadin and Sullivan:)
Posted by: Cathy | October 23, 2011 at 07:51 PM
I love when we have those moments when we really 'get it'. The excitement just can't be contained!
I have missed reading your posts. Thanks for the update and Congratulations!!
Posted by: Sarah | October 23, 2011 at 08:43 PM
Congratulations, girl! The Lord continues to do great things through your family.
It's good to hear from you!
Love from NC.
Posted by: cindim | October 23, 2011 at 11:21 PM