The Beat

So this is Tyler's first entry to the Kepner's blog. I figured it was time to give it a go. I feel as if I'm entering a whole new world of internet communication (maybe I'm behind the times). Yesterday, Susie and I went to the 4th appointment for her and the baby. This was a very simple check up to make sure things are progressing as expected, with the exception of one very important discovery: we heard our baby's heart beat for the very first time! It was amazing, I kept trying to imagine what that would feel like, what emotion I might experience - and, of course, I was way off. The moment the doctor placed the instrument to Susie's tummy, we heard this incredibly rapid beat. As if the baby had run a marathon or something. Absolutely amazing. So far this journey of pregnancy has revealed to me just how indescribable God's creation really is. I've always been captured by God's infinite wisdom, power, and presence - but yesterday was something completely new for me and Susie. This tiny little being inside her is a gift from God we will never take for granted.
In a time when this country has redefined the beginning of life and, through courts of law, decided that women have a "right" to take that life - I, as a father-to-be, stand amazed at this perfect gift from God, captivated by the precious audible sign of life. This post comes a few days after the election of Barack Obama, arguably the most liberal law maker in our country's short existence. This man has pledged to bring about even more liberal laws permitting partial-birth abortions within his first acts as commander in chief. There's only one question I would ask him on this issue if I had the chance: "Mr. President-elect, are you glad your mother chose NOT to abort you"? To which he might respond with some classy, yet meaningless quip. However, I would venture to say that the thought has never crossed his mind. I didn't mean to get off subject - but I do want to point out that, as Christians, we have rights we may lose if we are not careful. Pray for this country...everyday, pray that God's hand of protection will continue to be upon His people. I know God has a plan for this nation as we move forward. But if we are not careful, we may just lose the right to voice our opinion on these matters. God bless you and yours and may God bless America!