Happy Birthday Cruz Chernet Besk!

I have thought long and hard about this post, as Cruz's birthday, referraliversary, and day of death come upon the one year mark.
August 12, 2011 he was born,
August 15, 2013 we received our referral
September 12, 2013 he passed away.

Our son should be turning 3 today. Instead of focusing on the day that he died, we are choosing to focus on the day that he was born. We are celebrating this sweet baby boy, who was loved and prayed for by so many.

So, in honor of Cruz, would you please join me in praying this prayer together? It would be so amazing to know that so many are thinking of our sweet boy and praying for those in need.

Dear Lord,
You are the defender of the orphan. We want to see justice for the oppressed. There are so many vulnerable children in this world. I pray that each one of us will feel a personal responsibility to. "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." (Proverbs 31:8) Thank you for allowing us all to love Cruz. We pray for all of the children that are suffering, and ask that you would bring healing and rest to their weary bodies. We want to always love abundantly, no matter the cost. Thank you for loving us first, so that we may love others.
In Jesus' name, Amen.

Thank you to all of you who have loved us so well. You have prayed with us, stood beside us, and been so faithful. Thanks you for remembering Cruz and being so caring. We are overwhelmed by the way you all have welcomed Matthew into our family. He is our gift, and is so delightful. He exudes joy, and we are in awe that he is ours.

God bless each one of you. If God is calling you to love extravagantly, do it! You do not want to miss out on the chance to love. I would rather love and lose Cruz a hundred times over, rather than have missed the opportunity to love him.

Happy Birthday Cruz!

Love you all!
Love from the Besk family