12/22/2011
Dear Josie,
A friend of our family stopped by the house unexpectedly today. He wanted to tell me a story and he asked me to pass it on to you......someday when you are old enough to understand. I'm writing you now, to be sure that it is recorded as I promised.
Our friend is Bob. He is an older man, 90, this year I believe. He has watched you and your brothers join our family one by one and has loved on our family in many ways. We count his friendship very precious. All of you have been held by him as infants and sit in his lap often when we spend time together. Bob lost his wife many years ago, but one of his most priceless memories are the times that he prayed to our Lord with Ora Lee while holding her hands. He misses the touch of her hands terribly, and misses holding hands during prayer just the same. We attend a Bible study together with him, but do not often hold hands during prayer. It is something he longs to do but doesn't experience often. Last night was our Christmas party. We enjoyed food, drink, and fellowship together. We worshiped in song and celebrated together the birth of Christ. You and Jackson and Jon Hudson were a joy to watch and enjoyed the music in each of your own ways. Specifically, you danced and pranced around in the kitchen to each song....even after rubbing your eyes as it was late, you smiled and enjoyed yourself. At the end of the evening we had a prayer. Many bowed their heads and you knew exactly what we were doing. You spontaneously walked up to Bob. You held out your hands and held his while we prayed. When the prayer was over, you looked up at him and smiled. Then you walked away. Sweetie, the Lord used you last night to touch Bob's heart tremendously. He couldn't muster up the right words to express how deeply you touched his soul. He did shed tears, as did I, as he expressed his gratitude for your act of love. You are only 2 right now, but one day, when you are older, I hope it will bless you to know how God used you in your innocence to show His great love for Bob in that moment. Thank you, Josie, for your sweet spirit. Bob loves you, and so do I.
Love, Mom.
