Pictures from the Park - November 2014

We went to the park back in November to enjoy the nice weather and because Rick took the day off of work. This is one of my new favorite pictures of the kids. Little Luke (exactly 1 month old at the time) was in his little car seat. Maybe he can climb on the slide with everyone this summer. :)

Claire - 8, Miles - 22 months, Kate - 9, Sims - 3

Kate and Miles

Jack - 4

Sims, Jack, Henry - 6, Miles, Kate, Luke - 4 weeks, Claire

Claire and Kate

Christmas 2014 Pictures

Kate - 10, Claire - 8, Henry - 7, Jack - 5, Sims - 3, Miles - almost 2, Luke - 2 months

I couldn't figure out how to turn the self timer on so we didn't get a family picture - maybe next year.

   

Why we have 7 children

The 2015 Daxko kick-off is complete and the size of my family was an unplanned recurring humorous theme this year. I expect many people left last Friday evening with a few unanswered questions. Questions only I can answer.

Seven.  That's how many kids I actually have.  Comparing us to the Duggars is an insult to Michelle!

Yes. I know "how it happens"

No.  I am not "Roman Catholic"

Yes. I do have cable.  It doesn't help.

No.  I have no idea how we will send them to college…but neither do you.

Yes. We know about and have used birth control.

Why do my wife and I have so many children?  The Lord has given them to us.  He has entrusted them to us.  It is our great joy to teach them about Him.  We believe the purpose of our lives is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.  No, bearing and raising children is not the only way to honor and glorify God, but it is a rewarding work.  It is edifying.  It is sanctifying.  It brings me joy.  There are so many things people could laugh at me about so I'm glad they choose this.

Consider this. Everything we do on this earth will pass away. Very few people in history "make an impact" or are remembered for very long.  Human souls are eternal.  We have been given 7 eternal souls to care for and to teach about the Lord.  It is not always easy.  It often reveals my sin, but  I do this work with the hope that they will one day stand eternally before the Lord with me in peace.

All the work I put into their lives has eternal value.  This is HUGE!  Most people miss this point.  All the poopy diapers, long nights, sickness and general frustrations of parenting are not offset only by the happy moments captured on instagram.  One great joy of parenting is the hope that the child you brought into this world will one day pass through death to an eternity with their creator in perfection and joy. Children are truly a blessing from the Lord!

Some may still think I am crazy.  I am ok with that.  Remember this.  I have a really good chance of not ending up in a nursing home!