We have been most richly blessed
9/2/2011
God has done great things for Margaret and me. None of which is deserved. All of which have graciously blessed our lives tremendously. However, none of our blessings surpass our two precious children, Benjamin Lee Watson and Elizabeth Margaret Watson Riddle. Each of them has grown to be an outstanding young adult, married a wonderful spouse, lead a responsible professional life, serve Christ as a faithful disciple, and fully participate as an active member of their respective United Methodist congregations.
As grateful parents, we now joyfully understand the benediction in Psalm 128:6 which says, "May you see your children's children." We have been most richly blessed to see our two precious children each have two precious children of their own. Our four beloved grandchildren, Benjamin Alexander and Andrew Wyatt Watson (ages 11 years & 7 years) and Camilla Joy and William Watson Riddle (ages 2 years & 3 weeks), truly are special gifts from God for which we give thanks and praise every day of our lives.
I rejoice that I have been privileged to be present for the births of all of our children and grandchildren. Each time I have marveled at the miraculous power of God, the majesty of God's continuing creation, and God's gift of loving relationships born anew in every unique child. Oh, the wonder of it all, the wonder of it all!
Parents and grandparents can all understand these feelings of awe and wonder. Children and grandchildren make our hearts sing praise to God. To be part of the miracle of creation is an amazing experience. Nothing can truly prepare someone for it. It must be experienced to be known.
The desire to pour love on our children and grandchildren is immense. When they really need something, it is sheer joy to be able to provide it for them; however, Jesus said in Matthew 7:11, "If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"
Oh my, God loves us more than we love our children and grandchildren! What great news is that! It is proclaimed so clearly in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life."
Thank you, Lord, for your divine love for each of us; and thank you, Lord, for allowing us to receive your love and then to share it with our children, our grandchildren, our great-grandchildren, and with all people everywhere. We want to do it, Lord. Help us to love like you love us.
Dear God, let it be!
Mike Watson
Resident Bishop
North Georgia Episcopal Area
The United Methodist Church