On Birthdays

Yesterday was the 20th anniversary of the day I prayed to let Jesus into my heart. I call it my spiritual Birthday, and choose to celebrate it as such, because when I turned to Christ I was born again.

The day didn't begin quite as I'd hoped. As I bustled about, preparing for my short work-day, I couldn't find my ring - a ring that is very special to me, which I bought to commemorate my 18th spiritual birthday.

As the work-day passed, I psyched myself up for seeing some amazing Final Friday art downtown, and celebrating the life that He has given me, which is altogether not what I expected yet not disappointing either.

I found my ring at home getting ready for Final friday. I had searched in all the odd places it usually turns up, retraced my path from the previous day, and even prayed that it hadn't been lost. Inexplicably, it was on the floor next to my shoes. I was so glad to see it. It brought to mind Jesus' parable of the widow's mite.

Youth dance to the sound of drumbeats
for "Un Recuerdito" at City Arts.

The Jester's costume from
Twelfth Night on display at
Fiber Studio

So off I went to Final Friday, enjoyed the unique experiences, live performances, new perspectives on art, amazing costuming on display, and the company of two of my close friends throughout the night. I rode the Q-line, played a little Ingress, walked quite a bit, and learned of a new gallery. The night had it's hiccups, of course: Miscommunications, misdirection, the group being separated for a while and eating nasty food. But then there were the highlights: seeing old acquaintances, fellowshipping over a meal and then opening up and sharing with each other deep struggles and being able to encourage each other in those struggles.

I was so glad to be able to have these experiences on my birthday. Truly, it was a day I will look back on fondly as a reminder that Jesus is at the helm.

And then this morning it hit me: Both my spiritual birthday and my physical birthday are exactly a week before a major holiday. It's kind of silly, but I absolutely adore coincidences like that. I've always had a thing for special days and milestones, and my dear Lord knows this well. Just as I strive to delight in Him and struggle to live a life that makes Him happy, he delights in me and enjoys making me happy. I am my beloved's and He is mine.