When God Made You: God Loves You. This Is Proof.

I don’t really read to my kids anymore. Once they learned how to read they both got this pesky independent streak, as if they were growing up or something. Which is really, really too bad, because I found a book I would read to them all the time, if they would still let me. As far as I’m concerned, they can go do their tween things, like watch YouTube and play Minecraft and read National Geographic. I’m going to keep this book all for my happy little self, and they’ll figure out what they’re missing soon enough.

I have to tell you about this book.  If I had had this book when I was a kid, I would have learned to love my quirks way earlier, because this book is all about the unique way God made me, and made you, and made your beautiful little ones.

My friend, Matthew Paul Turner, has written the most beautiful children’s book called When God Made You, and listen, moms and dads —  I promise: it’s the kind of book that, long after you’ve donated all the other kiddie books to the donation people, you’ll hang on to this one as your keepsake. It will be your reminder of the cuddles and the soft blankets and the feel of their unique little bodies on your lap.  You’ll recognize the beautiful artwork anywhere.  You’ll memorize the words, and be able to recite them five years later at Christmas dinner when you get all nostalgic after a few glasses of wine. I promise.

And the words — they’re beautiful. Here’s a snapshot what you’ll be saying between your Christmas ham and apple pie:

You, you, when God sees you,

God delights in what is and sees only what’s true.

That you — yes, YOU — in all of your glory, 

bring color and rhythm and rhyme to God’s story.

I mean, come on. This is such a keeper. This book is proof that God loves us (besides that whole Bible and resurrection thing). It’s the kind of book your kids will remember, too. It will help them figure out their place in the world — or at least, know they have one. A unique, special place here in the world, carved out just for them, and for their one-of-a-kind talents and gifts.

The book is available for pre-order on Amazon now. You should go order it.

And between you and me, I promise not to tell if you order it even if you don’t have kids. We can all just pretend you have a nephew or something.