I am the youngest of 3 children.  Being the baby of the family has always been great…I wouldn’t trade that prime position, but there is something special about the oldest.

They are the protector, the leader, the spokesperson representing the pleas of the 3 kids when in critical negotiations with the parents.  My sister Sarah is the oldest sibling and growing up, she epitomized the oldest child role.  She was boss.  She dressed my older brother, Jonathan and I up in high heels and tutus, lipstick and mascara (no pictures will be posted, you’re welcome, Jonathan…it’s not considered drag when you’re only six).  One time when she was left in charge, my brother and I chose to buck her authority, and she hit Jonathan in the head with a frying pan and nearly caught me in the rear end with a flagpole before we locked ourselves in the bathroom until our parents came home.  (In her defense, we deserved it…or at least Jonathan did.)  But I could trust Sarah with anything.  Her encouragement gave me the courage to share my songs with people, and that has been huge in shaping my life.  I always looked up to her, she never made me feel left out, she always made me feel important, and she always looked out for Jonathan and I.

For example, I will never forget being a skinny little jr high kid and watching my sister ream the two kids who were bullying me, her finger in their faces.  As embarrassing as it was to have my sister fight my battles without me asking…there was still some significant satisfaction in watching 2 bullies nearly wet themselves before busting up crying because they chose to pick on the wrong gal’s little brother.

I’ve always thought Sarah was amazing.

I’ve always been inspired by her character, her capacity for grace, her loyalty, and her heart for Jesus.  She is a woman of prayer and of faith.  My sister speaks up for people who are hurting, she has a genuine and gentle strength that sustains those around her.  I’ve seen her when life is at its best and i’ve seen her when everything has fallen apart…and through everything, she’s maintained her integrity and her grace.  She has led her family, and my three nephews are so completely fortunate to have a mommy like her.  I learn so much from Sarah, and I pray that Ezra and Calla have the kind of relationship that I have with her.

(I’m a huge fan of my older brother too, he actually turned out pretty great for a middle-child, but like every other middle-child, he’s gonna have to wait, because today is her day.)

Happy Birthday, Sarah…I’m so thankful for you and so fortunate to be your baby brother.

I love you.