41 and Catie

“I am persuaded that love and humility are the highest attainments in the school of Christ and the brightest evidences that He is indeed our Master.” - John Newton

David may have summarized the Christmas story best when he said, “you stoop down to make me great.” (Psalm 18:35)

This week I have reflected on my only meeting with George Bush (41). In the fall of 1988, during his presidential campaign, he came to our small town to rally the troops and raise money.

Our daughter, Catie, had arrived home a few months earlier after an extended hospital stay which included a bone-marrow transplant to fight her leukemia. Her suppressed immune system required us to keep her away from crowds.

Knowing that the Bushes had lost a daughter to leukemia years before, friends arranged for us to meet him at a small gathering of influential supporters in a private home. When we arrived, the vice president left the power brokers and came to a side room to meet Catie. He got down on both knees, looked her in the eyes, and had an extended and encouraging conversation.

That moment gave me incredible respect for one of the most powerful men in the world. And it gave me a fresh perspective on the One who left His place of power and lowered Himself to provide hope to a needy world. Thank you President Bush. And thank You King Jesus.