People have widely differing opinions about social networking sites such as Facebook. I will confess that I'm someone who looks at Facebook more than once every day, so you'll know my bias amidst the criticisms. I'll admit it can be a great time-waster -- I stand accused! People share such trivial things. Yes, they do. And, no, having hundreds of Facebook Friends does not replace the importance of even a few special face-to-face relationships. But those criticisms aside, I am blessed daily with reading what people have to say. Friends I have moved away from. Colleagues in ministry. Our 5 young adult children. Today I read this from a mom in a church I once served:

17 years ago today was born a boy with witty humor, a deep thinker, and a kind heart. One of my greatest teachers. Happy birthday, Lucas! I am proud to be your mom.

I remember Lucas. He was a first-born special needs child diagnosed with Asperger's Disorder Autism. I remember his mom and dad adjusting not only to parenthood, but to a life of activism and advocacy for Lucas and other children like him. I would not have known or remembered that today was his birthday or that he'd grown to be 17. Facebook blessed me today with knowing.

I responded to Lucas' mom that I remembered when he was born. She wrote back that I was the first person to hold him other than his parents -- reminding me once more of the absolute privilege of ministry.

I am grateful for God's call to serve. For anything I have been able to do, I have been blessed a thousandfold in return.

Blessings,

Pastor Kris

A suggestion to guide your prayer this day: for the special needs children and their parents in our congregation, our extended church family, and everywhere.