Today we’re bringing you another gratitude-themed Miracle Monday from Sister Lynette Huttenberger.

On November 16, 2014, a miracle happened in our family for which I will be forever thankful to God. It also happened because of you, the saints of The Church of Jesus Christ who prayed. Webster defines “thankful” as expressing gratitude and relief. I want to express my gratitude to you and relief.

My daughter, Michelle Watson, and her husband, Michael, called to see if they could stop by our home prior to church that Sunday morning. It was a region conference meeting, and we were a bit puzzled by the request. Immediately, I thought, “It must be bad news.”

They arrived appearing somewhat somber. A light conversation ensued about what we’d be doing in June. I thought to myself, “Oh no — they are moving away next June!” We knew that a move out of state was a possibility with Michael’s job.

Hesitantly, I said, “Besides Dad’s birthday, there’s nothing going on in June.” Michelle then pulled an ultrasound picture from her purse showing 9-week-old Baby Watson and exclaimed that this is what would be happening in June.

Lots of screaming and jumping on my part. Shock on Jim’s face. We were overjoyed at the thought of a grandchild — but, what was more, we were basking in a long-awaited answered prayer. You see, Michelle and Michael had been wanting a baby for six long years. We’d spent many years praying that the Lord would grant their request.

They asked us to keep the news quiet until that afternoon. It happened to be Michelle’s birthday that Sunday, and our family came to our home after church for a birthday lunch. After the meal, Michelle opened some presents. The last one was from Michael. She removed the tissue paper from a small gift bag, looked inside, and said to everyone, “I’ve wanted this for a really long time.” (A staged surprise of course.)

She reached into the bag and pulled out a baby outfit with the word “miracle” on it. After a few seconds, my sister screamed with joy, and then the others caught on. Tears were flowing and praises to God filled the air. Aunt Marlene just kept repeating, “It’s a miracle.” And it was. My dad fell to his knees and offered a beautiful prayer of thanksgiving.

We rejoiced all the way to June 30, 2015 when Henry Louis Watson was born.

I’m so thankful to our wonderful God who answered our prayers in His perfect timing. I’m thankful for your prayers, too. Every time, over the prior six years, you whispered a prayer for my children, I’m personally thankful to you. I’m thankful for the numerous experiences God provided to sustain us during the time of waiting. The Bible recounts several thankful women who expressed gratitude for the same miracle: Sarah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth. I can add to this list a few thankful heroes from my branch: Dottie, Carolyn, Kika, Vanessa, and my daughter Michelle. My thankful cup runneth over and over and over …

Christmas Testimonies

Christmastime is upon us! And it’s about so much more than just gifts and carols and cookies. It’s about our Savior Jesus Christ. Do you have a Christmas-related testimony that you’d like to praise Him for? We’d love to share it so that we can keep our focus where it should be during this wonderful season. Click here to share your story.

Dare to Share Verse of the Day

Psalm 100:4-5 – Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.