Natallyie

"Fear came over all their neighbors, and all these things were talked about throughout the entire hill country of Judea.  All who heard them pondered them and said, 'What then will this child become?' For indeed, the hand fo the LORD was with him."

(Luke 1:65-66)

Liz & Zach were a "mature couple."  No kids.  Living out their lives. Then everything changed.  Zach, a priest, was alone in the Temple one day when the angel Gabriel brought word he'd soon become a father!  Zach found it hard to believe (even from an angel), something that got him in a bit of trouble (and rendered speechless for the duration of the impending pregnancy!).  But sure enough, in due time, Liz had a baby boy & they named him John.  That's when Zach started speaking again.  They dedicated John in the Temple when he was 8 days old. 

As word spread about this "unusual" occurrence, people were overcome with fear (of the Lord) and wonder... specifically concerning this child of Zach & Liz's: "What then will this child become?"

That's a great question to ask of ANY child, especially at their dedication/baptism.  This Sunday, we'll be baptizing Natallyie at Aiea UMC.  Natallyie is already 2 years old and has an amazing story.  Her parents, though not as "mature" as Zach & Liz, were definitely not as young as most would-be parents.  They'd been wanting to adopt a child for many years, but it just didn't happen.  Finally in late 2010 they received word that a girl was available in China.  They made arrangements & welcomed little Natallyie into their family on Valentine's Day 2011.  A genuine gift of love!  Natallyie had been abandoned and was living in an orphanage in China most of her young life. 

Back in Hawaii, there were some (expected) adjustment challenges... but mom & dad handled it with much grace & patience.  Now, this Sunday, they'll bring Natallyie before the congregation to be baptized.

"What then will this child become?"  What a great question.  Surrounded by a foundation of love... supported by a church family... given an opportunity to grow up with all the basic necessities every child should have (nutrition, shelter, education, health care, faith & a loving family?)?  How can we not say that the hand of the LORD will be with her?

"What, then, will this child become?"  Only God knows.  But what a joy it will be to be a part of that divine journey with Natallyie and her family!