Tip of My Iceberg

I knew it would happen. This must be one of Murphy’s Laws.

The Law of Inevitability.

Our oldest daughter, Heather, was due with her fifth child. They live two miles from us, and we’ve anticipated being there to help with the kids when the time came. To be there in the role of Nana to hold my new grandson.

Heather has a history of not delivering on time. Her children have been consistently hesitant to enter this great big world. Procrastinated arrival.

Except this time.

We had a trip planned with John’s team from work. With the expectation that we’d show up. Brains engaged in the thinking process.

My brain didn’t get that message. It wasn’t present.

Part of my brain was relaxed. We’d be back by Friday, Heather’s official due date. A date that oftentimes served only as a reminder of what hadn’t happened yet.

The other part of my brain said, “Fifth time is the charm. He will come when you least expect it.”

Should have connected with that part.

Ryken Paul Reddy was born early Tuesday morning, about fifteen hours after we’d arrived in Vermont. Heather and Jeremy had to call on a very good friend to come watch their kids at 2 in the morning.

What makes this happening even more comical is that cell phone coverage here is just about nil. You walk around holding your phone in various positions to see if you can catch a wayward bar of reception here or there.

When we  heard of Ryken’s arrival, I called the hospital on a land line to find out details.

We don’t even have a land line at our home.

In spite of my non-presence at this auspicious event, Heather and Ryken came through with flying colors. Jeremy is a proud dad–again.

Ryken’s four siblings–well, let’s say he’s entering a wonderfully expressive, active and vocal family who will love him uniquely and well. With a little drama thrown in for good measure.

It’s tough to plan your life when you don’t know what to expect. I’m not a huge planner, but knowledge of what’s coming down the pike makes life feel more doable. Easier to negotiate. Less stressful.

Ryken came when I wasn’t expecting him. I knew he’d come. Nobody stays pregnant forever.

Jesus is going to show up some day. He will return to claim His own. And it will be when we least expect it.

“For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come quite unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.”             1 Thessalonians 5:2

“Jesus said, ‘When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with Me where I am.’”             John 14:3

Heather and Jeremy have been preparing for some time for Ryken’s arrival. It’s allowed them to anticipate his appearance with joy.

Being ready for Jesus’ return means I know I’m one of His own. I know I’ll be in heaven with Him one day.

Jesus coming back? I’m ready.

Are you?