The MVP

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

Last night, Ellie and I worked the band invitational pizza stand. Rob traveled to South Granville High School to watch Ben play his best football game of the season. Nathan sent us all on with his assurances that if he felt worse, he'd text us. (He was fever free, watching Texas try to lose, and eating when I left. Frustrated that he couldn't go himself.)

About an hour later, the text arrived: "103.8 help." Nathan's illness continues to go the wrong direction. Many of our C3 Church family worked the band invitational with us. We prayed for Nathan, then Ellie and I hustled home.

His face had swollen. His fever persisted, even with ice packs and ice cold juice. I called Rob at the game, and insisted that we go to the emergency room. He reported that Ben was on the field and had the opportunity to play the entire second half. We debated a couple minutes, and ultimately, decided to pull Ben so Nathan could be treated. My heart broke for Ben, but Nathan needed medical attention.

While traveling home, Ben and I talked (I do love technology, especially our cell phones). He asked about Nathan. He never mentioned his disappointment. When they got home, he ran into the house to see his big brother and then ran to his room to change clothes.

Before taking Nathan to the hospital, we took Ben and Ellie to a neighbor's Ben helped Ellie through it all, taking care of her, so we could focus on his big brother.

Ben didn't finish the game last night, but in my eyes, he has won the MVP award. Just as Jesus instructs in John 15:13, Ben laid down his life by giving up the game he so enjoys, so that his brother, his best friend, could receive the medical care he needed. He loved without condition.

Dear God, Thank you for Ben. Thank you for creating in him such a generous, tender heart. Thank you for filling him with such an incredible capacity to love. Thank you for allowing me to be his mom. In Jesus' name, I praise you and thank you. Amen.