This post may not be your usual worship leading fare, but it’s an honest snapshot at where my life is today.
When my son was born 19 months ago, I wrote a blog post to him – heartfelt words from a new Father.
Eliana Joy Santistevan was born on Wednesday, January 29, weighing 8 lbs 3 oz.
Having a child is a total miracle. Worries of how you’ll perform as a parent are overwhelmed as you look into their eyes and you know it’s going to be OK. Kids call you to a higher level of living.
This is God’s miracle, God’s will, and God’s favor will follow those who trust in Him.
A Letter to Eliana Joy Santistevan
Eliana, I’m so thrilled that you are finally here. It all felt like a fairy tale until you flew into this world, screaming, crying, beautiful, perfect – an innocent life, full of possibility, potential, and wonder.
Though we hardly know each other, my heart is so full of love for you. I don’t know what it’s like to be the Daddy of a little girl, but I hear there’s nothing like it. When I think about the life you will live, I can’t help but smile.
I smile because you’re perfect – just as you are. Not what culture, Hollywood, or your peers say. I know you’ll feel the pressure to impress and please others with your life and accomplishments. God loves you because you are His child. He made you and calls you His own. That is enough.
I smile because I can’t wait to spend time with you, help you, enjoy your personality, and learn from you perspective on life.
I smile because I know life can (and will) be so incredibly hard sometimes. But I know you’ll have an unshakeable faith in God – the God who works all things together for the good of those who love Him. You won’t be shaken, snuffed out, or crushed by it all. You will know the love of God and the goodness of God deeply.
I smile because you have a wonderful mother. She’s strong, creative, beautiful, and cares deeply about her family. I know she can’t wait to teach you things, spend time with you, worship with you, and get you to eat food on your own 😉
I smile because your brother, Tyler, is kind, gentle, and full of positive energy. He will look after you, love you, probably hit you with his drumsticks, and give you lots of laughs.
I smile because you’re a Santistevan. Not too many people are graced with the privilege of real, authentic Mexican food on a consistent basis. Your part of a family of people who chase after God, love one another, and only communicate to one another in movie quotes and over-the-top, ridiculous sarcasm. I’m sorry 🙂
I smile because you will contribute massive value to this world, and you’ll influence eternity. Your view on this world is unique. You won’t just sit around waiting for orders, but will sieze life with passion and go do hard things, create important art, and release God’s grace to all who see, hear, and experience you.
I smile because you will have a real, personal, relationship with Jesus. Not because you’re forced into it (which you will be when you’re young) but I know God’s love will reach your heart. His glory will blow your mind. The day will come when one gaze upon the Savior and you’ll never be the same. Can’t wait for that day.
I smile because life isn’t always like the movies. It’s not what others may view as perfect. We will fight as a family. Your mother and I won’t always agree. The house will be a royal mess. Your feelings will get hurt.
At times, it will feel like life is spiraling out of control. But there is beauty in that chaos. There is grace in that mess. It’s because of the mess that we learn to love, trust, and believe in each other.
So, here we go. Live with a smile on your face. Live with intention, joy (your middle name for a reason), and passion.
Go and build the Kingdom of God in your own creative way.
Enjoy the simple things. Don’t allow yourself to be too tense. Take a deep breath throughout your days…and smile.
Because every time I think about you…I smile…you are God’s gracious gift to us. Now stop crying and let your parents get some sleep.
Love,
Daddy.
Question: What is one moment in your life that changed everything? What has it taught you? Share your experience in the comments!
[ois skin=”Beyond Sunday 2″]
Sweet David! Mazel Tov and congrats to you guys!
Thanks Rob!
First off, congrats. It is a wonderful moment. Remember though, sleep is optional. I have had the pleasure of being the father of a little girl for three years now. I am wrapped around her little finger and she knows it. All she has to say is “please with sugar on top” and I melt. It is completely different than a boy. My son is 9. He falls and I’m ok. She falls and I cry. It is crazy. May God bless your family and remember they will always be daddy’s little girl.
This is what I hear, Curtis. Thanks for the encouragement. Can’t wait to see her grow!
Congratulations David! This is very warming to the heart. When I grow up and have kids of my own, I will definitely do this! God bless Eliana 🙂
Thank you Gloria!
Congratulations!
When my first daughter was born it took DAYS! No joke. When my second was born I was ready. I filled the room with worship music, enjoyed God’s presence, and she was born in just four hours. Even the medical staff were quiet and kind of reverent.
Oohh…very nice! Good idea.
Congrats!!!!! What a blessing! 🙂 Can’t wait for our little princess in a couple of months! 😀
Ha…Not looking forward to the sleepless nights though.
Christelle, congratulations (in advance) to you! I’ll pray your little one is a good sleeper!
Psalm 127:3
Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him
Congratulation!!!!!
God Bless u
Very sweet, but why so much “God” this and that? It’s just nature. It’s your daughter. It’s as natural as rain falling…
Enjoy and spoil your daughter as much as you can – but do it for her because YOU love her and YOU are her Dad. Not some “sky fairy” or other non-sense. YOU work hard, YOU provide…YOU teach, YOU mistakes…YOU say your sorry when you do…It’s all of it.
Every creature on this earth procreates – it’s the one’s who’s heads are not filled with crap that carry us all forward.
Congratulations.