One of the great joys I have as a pastor is the opportunity to visit a family in the hospital right after the birth of a new baby. Having the chance to join hands with new moms and dads and to pray for their new child is an experience I treasure. It is always a beautiful and sacred moment.
Yesterday, I went to MCA hospital to see Mathilda Grace Fagan who was born this past Saturday. Her proud parents are Kyle and Sheley Fagan and a great big brother, Austin. Mattie was still in the NICU recovering from some fluid she had in her lungs following delivery so we gathered around Sheley’s hospital bed and said a prayer for Mattie.
I thanked God for Mattie’s life knowing that she is a gift given by God and before she belonged to any of us, she belongs to God…
I thanked God for her two parents, for the love that has knit their hearts together and all that they will do in their lives to love and nurture their little girl.
I thanked God for her big brother Austin who will help take care of his little sister and teach her everything she needs to know to make it in this world.
I prayed for Mattie’s life, that by the teaching and encouragement of all those that love her, she would fulfill all the hopes and dreams we share for her and grow to serve and love God all the days of her life.
It was an honor to pray for Mattie because she is a miracle…
She’s the new daughter of two of our best friends…
and, just to make it all the more special for me, she’s my Goddaughter as well.