Jimbo's Jots

This is Linsi Fu-Lee Westerby. She was born on January 22, 2003. She was the adopted child of our friends Jeff and Sandy Westerby. When Jeff and Sandy traveled to the orphanage in China to pick her up, they were warned that she had some medical problems. But the love for her that the Westerby’s had was so much greater than any infliction she had. While she only lived a few short years, her impact on family and friends is still alive.

Jeff wrote a poem on the morning after her death on May 11, 2006.  Here is an excerpt:

The family, in honor of her life and joy, have shared the story of her life, “Twice Chosen Forever Loved”.

Paul understands a little about this. Born a Jew, he wrestles with “being chosen” as a child of Israel and being “chosen” as one who preaches to the Gentiles.

In Romans 9, Paul picks up on the theme of “Isreal’s past election” (Wiersbe, Be Right). By past election, Paul refers to Israel’s rejection of the plan and purpose of God. In Romans 9, then Paul shares that God’s character is evident despite Israel’s history. God is faithful (1-13), He is righteous (14-18), He is just (19-29), and He shows grace (30-33).

Much like God, we have plans and a purpose for our children. We don’t exactly know what we’re going to get with our children. We understand that we have been “chosen” to help lead and guide. When our kids don’t always adhere to the plan, the challenge is then to become more like God in the eyes of our children. Maybe one day they’ll understand that they are “twice chosen and forever loved.”

Be blessed and be a blessing!