Raising a child with special needs
For the ones who care for others, and need care themselves.
Also for special needs · autism · disability · developmental delay · adhd · medical needs child · therapy appointments · special needs parent · diagnosis for my child · down syndrome · neurodivergent
For you formed my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well.
His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “This man didn’t sin, nor did his parents; but, that the works of God might be revealed in him.
He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me.
He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will gather the lambs in his arm, and carry them in his bosom. He will gently lead those who have their young.
But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these.
But Yahweh said to Samuel, “Don’t look on his face, or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for I don’t see as man sees. For man looks at the outward appearance, but Yahweh looks at the heart.”
A prayer
Original writing, not a quotation of Scripture.
Lord, my child sees the world differently, and I'm learning every day how to love them well in it. Some days I'm fierce and proud. Other days I'm worn out by the appointments, the forms, and the stares in public.
You made my child on purpose and you delight in them. Give me wisdom for their needs, patience for the hard days, and people around us who understand. Let them grow up knowing they are loved, by me and by you.
In Jesus' name, Amen.