Magpie and Muttonfly

Yesterday, my friend Mel gave birth to a baby boy; but this baby boy was not born to her.   No, Mel offered to carry little Quilan Boyd so that his mother could witness his birth, even though cancer had ruined her chances for carrying him herself.  Mel’s husband and children put up with morning sickness, emotions, and cravings so that a certain couple might become a family all their own.   They did it out of love; and they did it with enthusiasm.  I don’t know about you, but I’m not sure I could have that much love and concern for another.  Perhaps I’d get too attached; perhaps I’m simply too selfish.  What I do know, is this: my friend was willing to give the greatest gift of all; and in so doing, I believe, fullfilled John 15:13, “Greater love has no man, then when he lays down his life for his friends.”   No, she didn’t die – as we are taught in Sunday School – but she did put the life of another before her own.  And that is what it’s all about. 

So to both families, our deepest congratulations.  To Mel and her family – thanks for showing us what the greatest of love looks like …