He mumbled, "No," as he followed me into my room. As I turned around quickly, he grabbed my hands, laughing and looking very guilty. He knew a swift pelt to the solar plex was in order. I let him hold my arms at my side for a few moments as he tried to charm his way out of a beating and out of taking out the trash. He bartered and cajoled, smiling and trying to play the cute little boy, but in the end he found himself in headlock bewildered by the fact that he was still not strong enough.
Finally, he took the trash out and replaced the trash liner. The irony exists in how intelligent this kid is and how oblivious he can be to the obvious, overflowing trash can.
He started telling me about his new schedule on Sunday nights. He will be leading a seventh grade small group at our church. His eyes brightened as he told me he would be at Asbury for most of the evening each Sunday. I marveled at his desire to serve before the conversation changed. I braced myself at the reminder that my son belongs to God. Those words are comforting until your baby goes to be with God and then you and God are likely to have words. Wade's willingness to serve touches me deeply and scares me in profound ways. The hymn "I Surrender All" has a whole new context for me.
We both had places to be at 6pm tonight, so we walked out of the house together. I said, "Be careful." as he opened his car door -just like I always have since the day Taylor started driving - just like my mom said to me each time I left the house.
He answered, "Okay, I will. Love you."
"Love you, too."
We pulled out of the driveway together and he led the way. I turned in the neighborhood to take a different route but not before seeing the cross traffic on 71st street into which Wade would need to turn.
Then, like always, I said to my God, "Be with my boy, God...Please." and I turned the corner. The thought ran gently across my heart. That's what I used to say for Tay. She would be driving across Oklahoma or into Texas for a cheer clinic or back to Norman for school and I would say, "Be with my baby girl, God."
There have only been a two times when I heard the inaudible voice of God- tonight was the second time. He said, "I was."
Just like I would tag posts about Taylor with #golighttheworld, I often tag posts about Wade with #bestrongandcourageous. Do you know what the end of that verse is? "Be strong and courageous. Do no be afraid and do not be dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
It's a good thing.
#bestrongandcourageous sweet baby Wade.