Birth Story // Veda Josephine
November 2nd.
It is my hope and prayer that this date will always be one that stands out to me.
I am not typically great at remembering dates. I try but I am not the person who has birthday cards in the mail to arrive on a loved one’s birthday or who remembers special anniversaries.
But November 2nd -I hope this is one that always holds its significance.
On Saturday, November 2nd it was my honor to witness another life as it was brought into the world. Years of waiting and praying culminated for our dear friends, Caleb and Allyson with the birth of their beautiful baby girl, Veda Josephine.
Justin and I met Caleb and Allyson when they moved to Grand Rapids from Minnesota to join Redemption Church GR. Caleb is our worship pastor at the new location that launched this Easter. In a way it feels very odd to share their story when we have only experienced a glimpse of it.
I learned on Saturday that November 2ndwas actually the anniversary of the first time that they visited Grand Rapids when considering moving to be a part of our new church. When they told me that at the hospital, it gave me chills. One year prior they were at a crossroads of moving while in the thick of infertility treatment. The Lord’s timing is always perfect.
Ally shared that one of the main verses that carried them through their journey of infertility into parenthood was Psalm 27:13-14:
"I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living!
Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!”
I found it amazing that the day after sweet Veda was born, Pastor Matt gave a message on prayer and asking the Lord for the desires of our heart. God may answer with an immediate “yes” but sometimes His answer is “wait for My timing” or “no”.
After years and years of waiting and praying for Baby Messer, the Lord answered their prayers with a “yes”.
The genuine desire of this couple’s heart is to share their long and difficult journey into parenthood while honoring God in how He has changed their lives and drawn them near through this. I am beyond blessed by the opportunity to do what I do and be with couples in the most intimate moments of life. But these two inspire me beyond words with their love for each other, for Jesus, and now for Veda.
November 2nd will be a day that I remember sweet Veda and her birthday, but also God’s good and perfect timing in all things and to trust in his plan. Thank you, friends. You are loved by so many and we could not be happier for you!
