Think four:eight {day 29}

Meet my nephew, Estevan Joseph Miller.

Estevan’s story is nothing short of miraculous. Nearly five years ago he was born 10 weeks premature, weighing in at a mere 2 lbs. 3 oz. He was abandoned at a hospital by his birth mother, who unfortunately had numerous chemical addictions. She didn’t think he would survive so he was left there to die. It wasn’t long before the hospital staff recognized baby Estevan for who he was… a fighter. He was moved into a group home until he reached a viable weight allowing him to leave. Finally, at six months old he was “heavy” enough to leave. He weighed 8 pounds.

During Estevan’s stay in the hospital, another part of his story was unfolding that would forever change his life. My sister and her family had felt the Lord leading them to adopt a child. When they heard about Estevan, they were immediately drawn to him. The doctor’s informed them that they couldn’t guarantee if he would ever talk, walk or eat by himself. He would need to be fed through a G-tube and his life would be filled with endless doctor and therapy appointments. In spite of the doctor’s prognosis and after much prayer, my sister and her family knew Estevan’s home belonged with them.

When Estevan turned one, I created the video below for my sister’s family to celebrate his life… his story!

To me, the fact that Estevan and my sister’s family found each other is a miracle enough. But our God is a BIG God and the miracles didn’t stop there. Estevan is walking and running, talking and singing and although he still has to be fed through his G-tube, he is learning to eat by himself!

Anyone who meets Estevan instantly recognizes that he carries with him a a special and unique gift. He radiates the love of God. When he looks into your eyes, it’s as though he reaches straight into your soul and then deposits a smile and a hug before he leaves!

I am so grateful for my nephew, Estevan. I am so grateful for one more life that exemplifies Christ’s love for us. He saw us for what we were… abandoned, desperate and alone, yet He provided a way where we could be rescued, loved and set free. This is truly a reason to rejoice… truly a reason to think four:eight.

I’d like to share some pictures I took today of Estevan playing in the rain. He also wanted to show me how he could put his braces on all by himself. I love this series of pictures and how each image shows his determination and delight for accomplishing his new skill. (The one with his tongue sticking out while he is concentrating is my all time favorite!) My sister had to help him with his shoes at the end, but that’s o.k… he’ll eventually figure it out, he always does!

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

{If you are new to my blog, click here to read the story behind My Personal Challenge: think four:eight.}