My Dear Grace

Today you celebrate your first birthday; therefore, I want to express my best wishes, thoughts and love to you. Oh what joy you have brought me during this one year and I trust for many additional years to come.

How ironic that you were born on the first day of spring; the day when we normally think that the weather will be fair and growth will be seen. During the winter, there is great bareness and unfruitfulness, yet when spring comes, attitudes improve, excitement fills the air, light breaks and hearts are melted with a sense of love. That is what I think when I see you and your infectious smile and cheerful appearance.

Song of Solomon 2:11-13 "For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth, the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; the fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell."

Years ago, parents would name their children either in regard to or love for family members or friends and/or particular circumstances and situations. Every time that the parent would address the child, they would be reminded of the person/reason of that name. Today, however, names are given more because of the "sound" of it, frivolous and meaningless reasons. When I think of you, I am inclined to think that your parents did a great deal of consideration when they gave you your name. What a reminder and blessing when your name is mentioned because of what it reflects! Grace: God's riches at Christ's expense; unmerited and undeserved favor. How truly good is God's grace! I believe that your parents gave you this name because of what God has done to and for them. It is my burden and prayer that in due time, He might likewise show His grace upon you. May you be brought to the knowledge of your need of Christ and may the spirit of God reveal Jesus to you. Then, and only then, can you understand the true meaning of your name, Grace.

It is my understanding that you were also given your middle name, Carey, from your Grandmother Augustine's side of the family. You are a descendant of a great missionary of the middle 1700s. William Carey was born in 1761, and at the age of 32, went to India as a missionary. For 41 years he labored there, without any fanfare, support and little notice. There was very little response to his message and ministry. Yet he continued on in spite of difficulties and sorrow. He was so determined to go regardless of the cost! Initially, his wife refused to go along, but finally consented to be with him; therefore, she and their one child left England for India. She gave birth to a daughter shortly after the departure, this following the loss of two other baby girls. It wasn't too long after arrival in India that Mrs. Carey died, but he remained faithful to his calling.

Before his departure from England, he was an apprentice shoemaker but spent much time studying and self taught himself several languages. He read much from the Puritan writers and became deeply concerned with the propagating of the gospel message throughout the world. The amazing characteristics of William Carey were his conviction of the need of others, faithfulness to a cause, and desire to benefit others. He lived for the glory of God and assistance towards those that he met. Before he died, he made it a point to convey, "say nothing of Dr. Carey when I am gone but speak about Dr. Carey's God." I am hopeful that you, like him, will be enabled to have the same spirit, attitude and determination.

May you have the same longing, like your sister, to learn and study. May you have her determination and competitive spirit. While at the same time, I hope that you have the compassion and affection of your brother. There will be many similarities and comparisons between you and your siblings but remain yourself and truly be full of "grace."

To my "spring day" girl and "amazing" grace, my love and prayer!

Love,
Popaw