Building the Kingdom

Several years ago while we were pastoring in Grand Rapids at Kentwood Community Church, we had the privilege of being friends with Henry and Twila Lanning.  They were the most affirming and faith-filled older couple and a delight to talk with and be around.  Week after week when we would see them with our growing family they would come up with huge smiles and speak blessings on us and our children.  Henry especially would stop us and look at our children, smile and say, "Children are a blessing from the Lord."  We of course agreed whole-heartedly with him.  Then he would go on to say something very profound about the kingdom of God.  Henry would say, "You know, there are two ways to fill the kingdom of God with image-bearers that will love and glorify Him.  The first is to convert them into the kingdom.  The second way, is to birth them in.  You Zilkies are obviously serious about seeking first God's kingdom because you are filling it through both means."  Then he would smile and wink and move on to the next person to bless.  He had such a wonderful perspective and really encouraged us in the beginning of our parenting journey.

Well, after a challenging 6 months with an ectopic pregnancy, a couple hospital visits, and some increased tension in the home as we worked through these new challenges in our lives, we Zilkies are pregnant again and this time everything looks good to go!!!  The baby is where it is supposed to be and Julie heard a little heart beat yesterday morning.  We are only 8 weeks along, but are excited after initially thinking it was another ectopic pregnancy we were facing. 

Julie and I would like to thank God for entrusting us with another little image bearer.  Children are a blessing from the Lord and we are thrilled to welcome another  into our home.  And as Henry so eloquently stated, we are also excited to build God's kingdom.  Matthew 6:33 tells us to "seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."