Changed By a Baby Boy Named Owen

[As we remember Owen this day, his 4th birthday, and thank God for his ongoing touch upon our lives...originally posted May 30, 2009]

One year ago today, a precious baby boy came into this world. Small. Perfect. So very loved and wanted. He never took a single breath outside of his mama's womb. In fact, moments before birth, he went directly to the all-loving arms of Jesus.

No, Owen Matthew never breathed a breath in this world. Yet because he lived, I am changed. And so are many others.

Because of Owen, a watching world was reminded of the value of life. Baby Owen's parents learned a few months before his birth that he wouldn't survive outside the womb. In a society that says it's acceptable to terminate life in such an instance, his parents recognized that God is sovereign. He's the owner and creator of life; we're simply the managers. Owen's parents embraced the value that God puts upon life, and they embraced every moment, every kick, every memory God gave them. They chose life.

Because of Owen, I've seen how God sustains and carries those who are hurting. So many times, I'd considered the unfathomable loss of a child and wondered how a parent could could make it. But then I watched Jason and Heather. I saw their pain...heard their questions...felt their tears. I witnessed their faith...their resolve...their unwavering trust. I watched God minister to their hurting hearts, pouring His peace and strength into each one of them.

As months went by, I watched, fascinated, as they began to use Owen's story to minister to others and share the hope that God had poured into their hearts. Nearly a year after his birth, I heard Owen's mommy testify through tears, "We've been so blessed."

Yes, because of Owen, I've been reminded that whether in times of plenty or of want; whether in times of pain and loss or joy and blessing, God is so good. And we are indeed so blessed.

Our pastor has often told us, "God uses small beginnings." In thinking about Owen's 1st birthday, I can't help but consider the ways this tiny baby continues to impact my life, as well as the lives of so many others. And I think of Job's words in Job 42:5...


"I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you."

Yes, Little Owen, I had heard all these things. I had heard God values life. I had heard that He's faithful and loving and sufficient and good. But because of your life, I've seen it in action. I know it. I believe it. And a whole lot of other people do, too.

Happy 1st Birthday, well-made gift of God.