We had a birthday party for Jesus on Christmas night. I’d forgotten to purchase birthday candles, so we used real candles–big candles–in the cake. Surrounded by my parents and sister, we cracked up as the boys used their new air cannons to blow out the candles after we sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. While we were eating cake, my sister asked Joseph if Jesus was living in his heart. He said, “No. I’ll ask him when you leave.” Joseph has been asking a lot of questions about Christ lately, and we’ve made it really clear that it’s his choice. He knows that we can’t choose Christ for him, but when he’s ready, he can ask him to live in his heart. He’s told us several times that he wants to ask Jesus to be with him forever, but he always has a funny time in the future that he’s planning to do it. Imagine our utter SHOCK when my sister says, “Why don’t you ask him right now?” to which Joseph replies, “O.K.”

Rich asked him a few clarifying questions to make sure that he was really serious and that he really knew what he was doing. Joseph was definitely serious and asked if I would be the one to pray with him. So, my sweet Joseph prayed with me, in the middle of Jesus’ Birthday Party, and asked the God of the Universe to live in his little heart. I couldn’t have scripted it better.

That night he called Rich’s parents and told them the wonderful story. They were fantastic. I wish that I had a tape recorder to remember forever the sweet things that they said, rejoicing with him. The following Sunday, I brought special cookies to his Sunday School class. His teachers made a really big deal about his decision, and the whole class sang Happy Birthday to Joseph while munching on their Wal-Mart Bakery fudge and snickerdoodle cookies. It was truly a sight to behold. Our Christian Education director sent him a wonderful card. We’re still excited, and it’s been a fun celebration all around.

I’ve already noticed a special change in him. Prior to December 25th, he would not tell people that he loved them. Now, he’s told his brothers several times, “Rich, I love you. Sharky, I love you.” I point to his heart and ask who is living there. He beams and says, “Jesus.” We’ve told him that this year, he gave Jesus his favorite birthday present. I think we’re right.