Christmas at Grampa's

Grampa Groen enjoyed showing off his train and village which is set up under the tree every year. Douwe was quite interested in seeing all the details and the moving train.

Christmas Eve

Here's a nice picture of Grandma Jan with her current quad of grandchildren on Christmas Eve.

Douwe hears the Story

This trio of pictures is quite special. For one thing, Douwe's eyes are on the same page that Steve is reading, as if he hears and understands! Although Douwe heard a reading of Luke 2 in Sunday worship a few hours after these photos were taken, it looks as though Steve is the first to present the story of Jesus to Douwe. We were scrambling to get some food in the oven for Sunday lunch and Douwe was fussing, so we said "Steve, please read something to Douwe to keep him occupied for a few more minutes." This new book brought over by our neighbor last night was Steve's choice. Friends, do not be slow to entertain "strangers" in your home, they may very well be angels (messengers) in disguise! Merry Christmas.

3 months old

Douwe reaches the three-month old milestone this week. It is fun to see him develop a greater awareness for his surroundings. He has found his hands, he tries to mimic our facial expressions and sounds, and he absolutely loves kicking the water in his little bathtub.

Soccer

Steve is having a great time playing indoor soccer this winter. A good way to improve coordination and get some energy burned off on these short winter days.

Seven Years

It's been seven years since we tied the knot!

Proud Grandparents

Douwe was baptized today in a Christian church, and so is beginning his story of belonging to the people that call Jesus their God, Savior, Lord. His grandparents are pictured here holding him after the service of the sacrament.




Eight years ago when I tried to transfer my church membership to a Presbyterian congregation, I had the unfortunate experience of being told by my two church elders: "Since you were raised in this church we can be sure of your salvation, but if you leave, your children will not be raised here and get the Truth."

Of course that was a bully threat to manipulate me, and make me afraid to leave, but it makes a woman think twice about having children if they are put in hell before their birth by ignorant church men.

And so now we navigate a tricky path to pass on a special heritage of belonging, family, gospel and grace to Douwe, while knowing that mixed in with that heritage is still some rotten stuff of threats and exclusion and gang mentality.

Newborn Douwe, you don't have to "get the Truth" before you are included. Presenting you for baptism today means you belong unconditionally, you are loved by a most inclusive Redeemer, and that the Truth, Jesus Christ, has already "got" you.