My heart was singing … as I boarded a plane to Georgia to see Kingdom for his 5th birthday.
From the day Kingdom’s mother, Kiara, walked out of her abortion appointment and right up to me on the sidewalk, the miracles of this sweet relationship have blossomed.
In a ministry that can be challenging in more ways than one, many Sidewalk Advocates never have the gift of meeting a baby whose mother was impacted by their presence and God’s grace working through them. Yet they continue to show up in faith.
I had the honor of welcoming Kingdom into this world, serving as his mother’s labor support during those first miraculous moments. Since then, our bond has only deepened as we have celebrated each milestone together. From his 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th birthdays, I have watched him grow, and now he is turning 5!
And celebrate we did! As part of his 5th birthday celebration, we visited the aquarium. “Hold Titi’s hand (“Titi’s” Auntie for me),” his mom told him. It was my privilege to protect him so that he didn’t wander off all day. As I held his big boy yet still babyish hand, my heart grew more and more at the blessing his life is.
Because of God’s grace, I could know Kingdom for the rest of my life! One day I may have the honor of attending his graduation, or see him welcome his own baby into the world. Already, my heart could burst with joy over what the Lord has done and continues to do.
This great love is something I want to share with you, especially if you are a Sidewalk Advocate, a faithful sidewalk prayer partner, a friend or collaborator of the ministry, or someone who gives of your treasure to fuel the mission of SAFL. I want to impart a Kingdom-sized hug to you right now. What you have offered up really matters.
Kingdom is here. He is so precious to God, to his mother, his siblings, and to all of us.
Submitted by Program Leader Melissa, Sidewalk Advocates for Life-Grand Rapids, MI