I hesitated about writing this post, because this is not my story - it is Glenn and Kristin's. But it is a large part of what I have been processing this week, and one of the best ways that I can help to memorialize baby Branch is to write about him. To acknowledge his life. To be thankful to the Lord for all the time that the Murdocks got with him - far more than they thought probable or possible.
Branch was born a week ago today, and he lived for six full days, passing away about 8 hours short of one full week. To say that this is miraculous is an understatement. It doesn't go far enough. Most babies with Branch's condition live hours. I have been following this all very closely via text messages with one of Kristin's best friends who is a good friend of mine as well. The first day I was checking in every couple of hours, and as the week wore on, I checked in just a couple of times a day.
How are things? Any news? How's Branch? Jessica was so patient and gracious to keep me in the loop throughout Branch's life. We marveled together at how the Lord was prolonging his life. At how that makes it better and also harder. Do you ever have enough time with your child? The reality is that you would always choose to have more time, even when it does make it harder to say goodbye.
I've cried every day this week as I've thought of and prayed for their family. I'm so grieved for their loss, and I'm so thankful for their openness in sharing Branch with us. Sharing something so very personal and devastating while it is happening is incredibly brave and gracious.
The longer I live, the more I see of who God is. Watching the Murdocks walk through this tragedy has reminded me that our God sees. He hears. He is gracious and loving in ways that we can't even fathom.
Come and see the works of God, who is awesome in His deeds towards the sons of men.
Psalm 66:5
Though no one would ever choose to walk this path, I know beyond a doubt that Glenn and Kristin would also never want to undo what God has done here. They got to meet and love on a precious gift. I think Branch stayed around for the love. He had to be one of the most cherished and celebrated children to ever grace this earth.
Branch truly was Lionhearted. We miss you, Branch, and we will remember you always.
2 comments:
Thank you for sharing the story of sweet Branch. I will continue to pray for you and all the people whose lives were touched by this sweet little angel.
What a brave and courageous, Mommy and Daddy. Thanks for sharing.
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