Aden's Prayer

The transition from a comfortable life in the middle class suburbs of Charlotte, NC to a life as a full-time missionary family has been long. This transition's length has been matched with its difficulty. Since we moved out of our home over two weeks ago, I have been watching my boys to make sure they are adjusting well. I have not wanted to miss any moment when they would need to lean on me, so I have been carefully observing them, and praying for my boys during this period of transition.

Over the past week, I have paid particular attention to my sweet, tender Aden Richard. Tears have been coming too easily. Things that he would not have batted an eye at a month ago now bring him to tears. It is as though I have almost been able to visibly see the lump in his throat as he goes about his days. His beautiful, sparkly eyes seem down cast. I have given him a lot of extra hugs and kisses, but I have tried not to draw his emotions out. I guess I figured he would let me know when he was ready. Tonight he was ready.

He asked me to lie with him, so I did. In the dark room I heard him whisper, "Mom, I miss J so much. Do you you miss home mom?"  I could tell he was fighting back tears, and so was I. I knew I had to be the parent, the strong one. All of my being wanted to tell my little boy how badly I miss my home and all the people associated with our lives in NC, but I knew I could not for his sake. So I suggested we pray. I went first. I should have let him go first, because when I was done with my choked, wordy prayer Aden put his simple petition before God. His words were far better than mine.

Tears flowing, Aden prayed, "Dear Jesus, please protect us. Please comfort us. Please keep us strong, and please give us faith in you. Amen."

This is not a child who unwittingly heads to a third world country because he is on an adventure. This is an astute little man, who the Lord has blessed with wisdom beyond his years. He gets exactly what road he is being asked to walk. Still, my son chooses to walk forward knowing precisely what his journey entails. The road Aden has in front of him is more difficult than the one before most boys his age. In fact, it seems more like a mountain to him right now, but given the choice he still chooses to climb. Aden believes with his entire heart that God has asked him to move to Lesotho. Tonight I glean my strength from my son. and my hope from his prayer dripping with childlike faith.