it's Spring and another time of year....Autism awareness

I haven't blogged in so long....I had a moment and am back at the blog....God's voice is so clear sometimes.  I was reading to Olivia about how Jacob wrestled with God. Gen 32. (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2032:22-32)

I felt the Lord remind me about all the wrestling Chuck and I have done in praying for Isaac. As I looked at my old blogs Jan 2013 I wrote about wrestling with God. So very cool. As April 1 approaches I've been praying about what to share for April Autism awareness month. I'm still not 100% certain but  the Lord will confirm. Here are some things I have been pondering. #1 Autism is hard.  I pray God would use Isaac's life to move compassion in others --- those who raise special needs children need prayer. When I am weak He is strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10) #2 Acceptance not Conformity is needed. I used to think the most important thing for Isaac would be to blend in....get mainstreamed...be somewhat "normal". Now I realize...Isaac is made by God for God and to accomplish God's purposes. If I had one prayer for Autism awareness month it woild be this---Learn about autism, love and respect people with autism and be understanding that these kids and adults ARE DIFFERENT. They are different and that's OK.... Yes we can help with early intervention, etc, but God made them unique (and us too)...let's explore this uniqueness !! Isaac hss obsessions with certain toys. I used to think maybe one day he'll grow out of this or overcome this. Maybe yes, maybe not. Why not just focus on today???? Enjoy Gods blessings TODAY just as it is. Don't put so much emphasis on kids with autism "blending in" ...Isaac may never blend in...God might (and often does) use weak things to blow minds and confound the wise. (1 Cor 1:27)

May God use Isaac for His glory. May God teach us that different is not less. May God teach us to help kids with autism overcome hurdles but may we also see that the unique behaviors and characteristics of people with autism and other disorders/special needs/disabilities are made in the image of God. Remember, God made YOU special and loves you very much.