Waiting is the hardest part…having such a peace in my heart for something so wonderful as us releasing our son into the arms of the Creator of the entire Universe, makes waiting the hardest part. I want to spend every second with him, I don’t want to close my eyes and sleep, but the peace that we know, that deep stillness that is in the natural, unfathomable, also makes me wonder why we have to wait to offer our gift without blemish…It’s like when you find a gift for someone and it brings joy to your heart knowing it’s perfect for that person, you can’t wait to give it to them…We are grateful for the week, but the hope is overwhelming! I am the richest woman in the entire world! It may be boastful, but, seriously, to be given the opportunity in modern day to literally and legally lay our child at the feet of God, that is the MIRACLE! Noah’s beautiful 7 month life here on this earth IS the miracle. My heart transformation, Jason’s, maybe yours…No matter what, no matter where, God gets ALL the glory! You see, what may bother some that the doctors never have diagnosed Noah, it adds to my peace…NO ONE CAN LABEL OUR SON! We are so very grateful that the ONLY reason for death is that Noah was given as a gift to the Most High God! Science wants to wrap its brain around a specific diagnosis, but when one lives up to one’s name, “Noah-Peace-Shalom-Nothing Missing, Nothing Broken”, then no test can define him, no category can label him, he is called by his name. The death certificate can’t say something specific. Unless you want to get technical, then fill in the blanks with “Earth sucks. He got a glimpse of Perfection so Noah went home to be with Jesus.” So sorry, devil (fyi, he’s unworthy of upper case emphasis!), but obviously you are quite dense because you try this daily all over the world. You try to cause hearts to harden toward God, try to distract and discourage. You messed with the wrong family…We’ll only shout it louder, love harder, tell even more people about the amazing unconditional love of God, the saving grace of Jesus Christ and the Peace that passes all understanding. Noah is God’s alone and the devil does not get one bit of the glory. God knew our hearts, just as He knew Job’s…Friday will be a glorious day!

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152 Responses

  1. My heart and prayers are with you today, tomorrow and for all the days to come. God bless you as you take this precious step in Him, without doubt that He is sovereign. Our church in England will also hold you before Him as you say goodbye to Noah on this shore and Jesus says hello on the other.

  2. Rejoice!
    Yesterday I was looking for a card to send. I know this will come as a surprise, but Hallmark doesn’t have a section for “We are rejoicing with you in the loving sacrifice of your son.” It’s a good thing I have a friend who has given me some lovely homemade cards so I have something of a recipe.
    My heart has been rejoicing this week because I know your cup is overflowing. Friday will be a POWERFUL day!!!

  3. Your faith is truly remarkable. I pray that God will continue to give you peace in the days ahead as you surrender His child back into His arms. What a blessing that He gave you this sweet child – if only for a short time. There are so many that are praying for you and so many lives you have touched by your constant belief that God is All Powerful!

  4. Keeping you all very close in thought, today, tomorrow and the days to come. God Bless you and know that even strangers walk beside you on this journey. Windsor, Ontario, Canada

  5. Jason, Ade, and Emily

    Our hearts are breaking and rejoicing at the same time for you. We are praying constantly for you all and we want you to know that we love you and believe in you and in our wonderful loving Lord Jesus Christ. You are a shining light for Him. May He give you abundant strenghth and courage in the next days. We will be on our knees for you!
    Love, the Grossingers

  6. Have you guys taken any professional family photos? We would love to see a “entire” family shot again! God bless you and your courage. Inspiring.

  7. I am continually blessed by your faith and your grace! Your words are profound and have touched me deeply.

    My family and I will continue to pray for you today and tomorrow. glenda, Plainfield, IL

  8. Praise be to God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. Let not your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions. I go to prepare a place for you that where I am there you may be also. Noah’s mansion is ready and waiting, prepared for him by the creator of the world, our Savior. I continue to pray for you and thanks you from the bottom of my heart for sharing this journey with us. God chose you because he knew you would point the way to Him. This world is not our home and soon, we will all be home together.

  9. Michael W Smith wrote a song several years ago called “Hello, Goodbye”. It’s on his LIVE THE LIFE cd. I think it would be oh so appropriate for you and your family. May God continue to bless you all jsut as you have blessed so many sharing your family and your words of faith and peace. Tahnk you…

  10. I have just heard of your blog today. As I sit in Cheltenham England, your story as made a huge impact on me all day! I have only been this inspired one other time and that was at a funeral of a wonderful Godly woman. I will say to you the same thing I told her husband, “If I can only be half as faithful of a woman that you are (she was), I would be blessed.” Thank you for sharing your life and your love for God so honest and openly. You have taught me more about our Savior. My husband and I will be praying for you, Jason, Em and Noah!
    In God’s Grip, Jaylene Howell

  11. What a celebration!!
    I too, had been given the gift of ushering a loved one into heaven way too soon. As much as my heart ached for it’s own selfish reasons, I was given a peace beyond comprehension by many that he was in the arms of our most Amazing Lord & that is worth more than any words can say. (Although you did an amazing job at that!!)
    YOU have done the most amazing thing by glorifying Him in all of this & I hope that your words bless more than you can possibly imagine! Our prayers are with you as you do the most amazing thing that anyone can ever do-pay tribute to our Lord. Rest in Peace little Noah!!

  12. I can’t help but to reiterate the previous comments with an astounding AMEN. To say “May God Bless you” is such an understatement. God has blessed you beyond words to have this blessed little angel with you. I will continue to pray for you long after Friday. May peace find you and your family. Lots of love and aloha from here in Hawaii.
    Charlotte

  13. The Graves family…truly an inspiration to all that you touch. Your faith in life, family, love and God is truly remarkable and so unselfish. Your devotion, courage and strength as a family already touched the lives of so many, including mine. I will keep your family and little Noah in my thoughts and prayers today, tommorrow and always.

  14. You have touched my life and I am sure so many others with your lives. I have prayed for you and your family and will continue to pray in the coming days. I plan on telling my children about your lives tonight and how your gift Noah has touched so many lives and I am sure is going to touch so many more even after he is gone. I had just started reading your blogs on Tuesday and have been so touched by everything. I hope and pray that everything goes well in the days to come. Just know that he and you have touched so many lives in just a very short time.

  15. i really don’t know what to say but that you are truely inspiring to those that don’t know there is a peace that can overcome ANY pain. we can all try to tell others that “God will see you through” but living it for all to see is you being the vessel. PRAISE GOD!! God has filled you up and now you are overflowing for literally all. For those that don’t know, this is God’s beauty. from one mother to another i am praying for you.

  16. Dear Adrienne, Jason, Emily & Noah, I cannot stop thinking about you all. You are very much on my heart and in my prayers continually these last few days…and I’ll continue to pray. This morning when I got up to feed my baby Kristiana, I began to have some words and a melody come to mind for a song for Noah. I’m going to keep working on it and when I’m done, I’ll send it to you…perhaps via the church if that’s okay? Your story has rocked my world and made me think more on eternal life in the last few days than I have in awhile. Thank you sweet Noah for the legacy you leave…you are a blessing. Adrienne, thank you for sharing your heart so openly. I appreciate your depth and your hope in Christ! I’m praying for God to carry you all through this and to give you the kind of peace that only He can offer. Blessings to you all…may you have some very memorable moments in the next hours and days…Melody (Wolleat) Johnson – MN – NWC Grad. singermelody@hotmail.com

  17. Thank you for walking this journey so transparently. Through His work in your family, God has changed people’s hearts and brought thousands to their knees in awe of His greatness. In 7 months of life, Noah has touched more people around the world than most will in a 70 year life-time, what a challenge to us all!

    Our hearts and our prayers have been and will continue to be with you. May God pour His sweet peace into your hearts as you continue to offer up to Him your precious Noah.

    …no label or diagnosis given by the physicians of this world, no one other than God to lay claim to his heart, just sweet and precious Noah experiencing the ultimate healing of our Great Physician.

    Love,
    Missy, Nathan and Benjamin.

  18. I am a coworker of your friend, Heather, and have held your family in my prayers throughout these long, but short, months. Your testament of love and Faith during this difficult journey has greatly moved me and blessed my own Faith. The Glory of God has been greatly reminded to all of us who rejoice in the gift of Noah. The miracles that God has worked through him in these 7 months are greater than most of us could ever dream for our lifetimes. Noah is truly one special boy with an amazing family, and my life is richer for “knowing” all of you. I look forward to witnessing the continued blessings that stem from Noah’s life as God leads your family down this next path…it will be glorious!

  19. I am completely heartbroken for you. I sit and cry as I type this. I am amazed at your unselfishness to offer Noah to God. You definitely have more strength than I do. Noah is beautiful and I hope and pray that somehow God intervenes and performs a wonderful miracle healing so that you don’t have to give him up.

    Love,

    Vicki Fields (Jayden’s Mommy)

    http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jayden

  20. Adrienne,

    I found this information in Preemie Magazine:

    “Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep” connects families with professional photographers who volunteer their time to capture final moments in what is known as remembrance photography. They provide families with soft-light images of their child on a DVD and/or reproducible CD. The family is not charged for this service, as all of this company’s expertise and organizational funds are donated. You can find out more about this free service and find the photographers in Denver (there are several) who are willing to do this at their website:

    http://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org

    Much Love, Brandy in MO

  21. I just wanted to let you and your family know that I will be praying for you all. Noahs story has touched my heart and I truly wish your family didnt have to go through this pain.
    Hayes Family
    Ft. Bragg NC

  22. thank you for sharing your story. through tears and smiles i read it and am just in awe at the peace and strength God can give. Noah will be the luckiest boy tomorrow when he gets to be held in the arms of his savior Jesus. thank you for touching my life.
    katie-springfield,mo

  23. I always pray I have the right words, but truthfully, there certainly are no words.
    Your glorious son was God’s son first and He loves him so dearly. I suspect that his wings have already begun to flutter and eternity can already be seen on the horizon. You loved ones already whom have passed on are lining the gates and a crowd of angels surround your entire family. Feel their warm presence and know they are with you. Remember every second of his Earthly life knowing that he is going to start living again! As he blows out the darkness, he will be breathing in the most beautiful and blissful light possible!!!
    God bless this glorious family and may they feel the peace that only You can bring. May your beautiful angels surround and protect them. Please, God.. please send them many signs so that they KNOW, without hesitation, that this beautiful baby boy is home in your glory.
    God’s blessings and peace.
    Even today.. even when you are so very sad.. know that YOU ARE BLESSED!!!
    Love,
    Heather Tierney
    http://www.caringbridge.com/ga/jennifercorbin

  24. Your story and faith have moved me beyond words. I look forward to meeting this little brother in Heaven one day. You are an amazing family, chosen, as Mary, to bear something no one else could. My prayers are with you all today. A friend of Matt and Molly in Moscow, Russia

  25. My darling wife will be there to help Jesus welcome Noah Home. She was an elementary school counselor who went Home last April.

  26. Your experience have helped us all feel just a little bit more understanding about how Father God felt giving His Son do die for us. Your love, peace and joy of giving through suffering is what He felt, I’m sure. But, Praise God, He got him back again and so will you! God will take good care of him for you. What a reunion that will be!
    Vern Baumruk (Michelle’s dad)

  27. Though we dont know each other… i will be saying a prayer for your family. Your strength has touched my heart… May god bless and

  28. BY INVITATION ONLY
    NOAH GRAVES
    JANUARY 12, 2007

    You alone have been chosen to come
    live in a mansion with the King. You will experience abundant peace, joy, and love. You will be sung to by the angels, and experience life as you never have before. Your room is ready.

    All your loving brothers and sister in Christ

    WEST CHESTER, PA

  29. Dear Adrienne & Family,

    A friend from MN forwarded your blog to us today as a prayer request. We were looking through the pictures and thought we recognized you. Sure enough ~ we were attending Northwestern when you were an RD (’97-’98). Bless you guys! You are truly being held by our Almighty God ~ it’s so evident on your blog. We’ll be lifting you all up in prayer.

    Joshua, Sarah, Elianna, Samuel, Aaron, & William Aberle

    http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/joshuaaberle

  30. Today was the first day that your blog was sent to me in an e-mail from a friend. I must say I was blown away went I went throuh the entire blog an lost about 3 hours today. I hung on your every word. It was almost as though Jesus was speaking right to me through you. I also couldn’t hold back the gut wrenching tears when I read January 11th’s entry–yep, today. I’m reading today and you’re releasing him tomorrow?!?! “What in the world good does this do me, God to read all this now, when I can’t be a participant in prayer with them now…it’s too late.” My child, I hear Him say, yours is to learn from Arienne. It’s not too late, the decisions I’m asking you to make are no more difficult than hers, but unlike her, you’re not releasing them to me. Please, Adrienne, don’t stop telling your story. You just never know, even long after Noah is gone, who will read this and whose life will be changed because of your faithfulness. Even your pictures (yeah–even the ones without showers) show the peace that passes all undrstanding that comes to those whose hearts and minds are stayed on Him. THANK-YOU for sharing your son, for sharing your life and for sharing in the blessing God gave me. I’ll be praying tomorrow.
    Kristi, Cañon City, CO

  31. Oh Adrienne – you bless my socks right off my feet! Thank you Father for doing THIS work in their hearts – may YOU truly receive all the glory!

    “You messed with the wrong family…We’ll only shout it louder, love harder, tell even more people about the amazing unconditional love of God, the saving grace of Jesus Christ and the Peace that passes all understanding.”

    heidi jo w

  32. I have just recently found your blog, a friend shared it with me so I could pray for your family.

    I’m moved by your strength and courage, but what is most evident is your unfailing love for the Lord. He will carry you through, no matter what tomorrow will bring, nor the next day, nor the years to come…HE will be faithful and see you through.

    I think to myself, what if ALL children were as blessed to have parents who know the Lord and love Him such as you do? The world would be a very different place.

    I’m the mom to a special-needs kid myself and I know too well the pain of watching your child suffer. I applaud you for giving your son so much dignity and acknowledging his life mattered, and will always matter.

    Praying for you all here in North Carolina. And, for the record, Noah is a beautiful little boy.

  33. Wow! What an amazing story you have been given to share with the world!! My heart and prayers will be with you, today, tomorrow, and the weeks to follow. What an incredible gift to give to our God!!

  34. Precious friends,
    I’ve been praying for y’all all week. It is Friday here in Sydney, so I woke up thinking of you. Thanks for sharing so much with us in the past few months. It has been amazing to be a fly on the wall of your recent journey. What a testimony y’all are…what a living sacrifice is your whole family!

    I pray that your Friday is so special, and that God’s faithfulness continues to surprise you in so many different ways.

    You are amazing!

    love
    ashley thomas

  35. After Jesus said this; he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you”
    John 17:1

  36. Although I have never met you all, I know the beauty of God you are experiencing. In Sept. my mother passed away from cancer. Her story of leaving this world for heaven is a blessing to everyone. Everything seemed to fall in place as her last days neared. I, too, prayed for a miracle on earth but knew that the miracle was her lying at the feet of Jesus, too. On the morning she passed my brother was the only one with her and said he felt her spirit rise up and away to heaven. My aunt called to inform me of her death and the very first thing out of my mouth was “I’m so glad” not because I was happy she had died, of course not, but because I was happy she left her suffering life on earth for an eternally wonderful life in heaven. There is such peace in death when one truly understands that God has no ill will and that the devil is not responsible for the death.

    You’re son has been such a blessing to the world and I pray that you continue to find peace. You’re daughter has an amazing heart – what a gift! I hope you will find all the peace and beauty possible in the coming days, months, and years. Thank you for sharing your gift from God with all of us. God bless you.

  37. You guys are the most awesome people I think I’ve ever seen! I am in tears just reading the last blog you wrote. Your faith is greater than anyone I have ever seen in my life. Praise the Lord for Noah and your faithfulness to him and our Savior. Please know y’all are in our prayers tonight and tomorrow. We also have the prayer team at our church praying. Can’t wait to meet you guys, including Noah, in Heaven!

    Jamie Baker
    Albany, Georgia

  38. You are so courageous. I am a firm believer and admire your strength through this time. I am so sorry that your family is dealing with this. No parent should have to deal with the loss of a child. God Bless and I will be praying for you.

  39. I am not sure what I can even say to you and your family, other than THANK YOU! Thank you for your love and faith in the Lord, thank you for allowing the public and world to have the honor of meeting you and your beautiful son, thank you for having the courage that you have and thank you most of all for having such an impact on me and my views that have been so udderly shaken by the recent death of my father. Seeing your blog today and your beautiful family, has brought me back to the peaceful and honoring way I view the Lord. It has been such a painful month (exactly today) and I have been so angry and lost and somehow out of nowhere, your family was brought into my day. After sitting here, reading and crying for you and your family, I began to feel the warmest sense of peace. I feel as though, I and my family are going to be ok. You have shown me that there is belief in the Lord, even when you can’t quite understand his reasoning for an event that has or is about to take place.

    You are such a wonderful and amazing family and I am praying for you to continue the strength that you have and for the peaceful reuniting of Noah with our Lord. At the same time, I pray for the Lord to give you a Miracle, but I know that the “real” miracle has already taken place.

    Again, thank you, with love and peace and prayers.

    Sincerely,
    Tammi K.

  40. Graves Family,

    I am not sure how I came across your blog this evening (1/11/07), but I am glad I did. Because of your story I will make a conscious effort to enjoy every moment with my children. I have to admit with work, housework, sports, and many other things I have passed up many opportunities to spend quality time with my children. Admitting this makes me sick. I want to go wake them up and enjoy them. I sat and read your whole story and sobbed most of the way through it. What a testimony you have to share. I will pray for your family in the coming days. The past several days I have downloaded some new songs from ITunes, I would love to share them with you. As they played on my PC while reading your blog they seem to fit your story. One is a great song called Yet I Will Praise by Melissa Boraski. I would love to send you a CD of the songs that have been speaking to me tonight.

    Many Prayers your way,
    Gas City, IN
    llorens@quixnet.net

  41. Amazing, unshakable faith… Little lives are the hardest to let go… May the Lord bring you peace in whatever happens. I am praying for your family and little Noah. You are all such an inspiration and I can see God moving through you to touch others.

  42. I just tucked in my one year old son and sat down to your story…it’s hours later… I’m reading your words through a mothers heart, and most of all capturing the faith that spills from your letters and pictures and lands on so many souls. Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for sharing Noah…
    ~ many prayers from PA.

  43. Me again, the one who posted about SCID. I have struggled with my posting all day.

    I’m sorry if I have confused or made things more difficult for you and your families. I know you have mentally and physically prepared yourself to give Noah to Jesus.

    I’m sure they tested Noah for SCID. Like I said I’m not sure why I was led to this site or why Fieldon came to me. I couldn’t even remember his name, let alone the name of the disease. I just remembered his symptoms and knew they were similar to Noah’s. Thankfully I was able to reach someone very special who got back to me quick!!

    Please know that we have all been touched by Noah. He is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

    Janna
    Indiana

  44. Our prayers are with you during this time. Thank you for sharing your family with us. Your children are beautiful. I am struck by what a personality your daughter has in all of her photos. I pray that she will continue to be blessed with a wonderful sense of humor and the heart of Christ. I know she will continue your mission and bless many, just as her parents and her brother have. Thank you again for sharing with us. In turn the women of my ladies group,and myself, will continue to stand in prayer with you,and for you,this day and beyond.

  45. God Bless Noah and your family. Your story has touched me deeply. My nephew was born at 28 weeks and went through many struggles. My prayers are with you. — Much love, MN

  46. Your family has touched me and blessed me beyond imagination. Your faith in God, family and life is a true testimony of your faith in the Lord. A friend at church emailed me the blog and put Noah and you all on our prayer list at church. I came home and got on and read, cried, prayed and continued reading your inspirational story. I know you have impacted many lives here in East Texas and that is so great you are sharing your faith. The LORD is receiving all the glory and not the devil. AMEN!! I will continue to pray for Noah and your family way after tomorrow. Just know he did not die in vain, you and your family have shared the LORD with millions of people and touched many more lives. Keep your faith strong and have peace for many days to come. Our loving Father will recieve a wonderful “angel” tomorrow and he will be home in his mansion. May God be with you and your family and give you strength, peace and the love of awesome support group. “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13. May God bless you and keep you.

  47. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Luke 18:16
    You will continued to be crowned in peace. Praise God.
    In Christ,
    Michelle from RRC

  48. I learned of your story just yesterday…today I feel changed…I continued to wake up last night with words in my mind from a praise/worship song I learned a while back…
    “Bring Your Kingdom. Heal and Restore. Send Your Spirit and fill us once more. Maranatha! Come, Oh Lord. Bring Your Kingdom!”

  49. God bless you Adrienne, Jason, Emily and Noah. We have all found a peace and a hope and a love that did not exist before Noah came into our lives. Thank you for sharing your beautiful, touching, heartbreaking story with all of us. You have enriched so many lives by telling us about one little boy. One life can make a difference. Noah made a difference.

    Your precious boy will live on in the hearts of thousands of people forever. When he does go to meet the Lord, there will be so, so many open arms waiting to welcome him. He will be lifted up to heaven on the millions of prayers being sent to him and to you at this very moment.

    With all of the love in our hearts,
    The Vasami Family in Delaware

  50. You are such an amazing example of a true and faithful servant. Your journal is so precious and you are showing so many what a true believer in Christ looks like. An angel. My prayers will be with you all.

  51. Your family has touched me in ways I never imagined. Noah is so incredibly precious. Although I don’t know your family in the traditional sense, I feel like I am right there with you. My prayers are with you all and will be with you all day tomorrow and the days to come. May you feel God wrap His loving arms around you so tight through this incredibly trying time.
    God Bless,
    Carol-Lynn
    California

  52. I just stumbled into your blog late this evening. This past May my husband Pete and I made the same decision you all have made. Our son, Gus was 16 months old when he went home to be with our Lord. I held him as he passed and I felt the beautiful presence of the Lord. I will be praying for you today as you say goodbye to your sweet Noah. I find comfort in knowing that you all know that it is but for a short time…we will be reunited with our sweet babies and live with them eternally!! I am also going to post your blog link at our ministry blog so others can pray for you all today and in teh coming days. Thanks for sharing your story and your faith!

    Jenny
    http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/gdoriot

  53. I was directed to your site by a friend of mine a few minutes ago. I have read all of your posts and as I write this it is 12:00am on Friday, January 12. God is AWESOME! I pray for your family through this time and I thank you for being so faithful. Though I cry while I write this, I know that God has amazing plans for the little life of Noah. My heart breaks for you as it rejioces in your son’s chance to be with our Creator. How lucky he is! I am excited to one day meet your son in Heaven! God bless your family today and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

  54. Dear Adrienne and Jason,
    Beth called and left a message yesterday for me to look for your blog. The last time I saw you was at the CBS baby shower. So much has happened in your lives since then. We wept as we read your entries. It seems so overwhelming the struggles you and your family and Noah have endured and yet, the finger prints of God are all over Noah’s story. It was inspiring and heart rending at the same time. Your writing is so personal as if we were sitting right next to each other. You have taken such wonderful care of Noah and we pray God blesses you richly in many ways for all you have done. God truly will say “well done good and faithful servant”
    Love Susie & Bob

  55. Adrienne and Jason, I only was told of your blog this week and am in awe of you and the way the Lord has worked life-transforming miracles-of-the-heart through Noah and his family all around this world. Definitely in my own heart! Your unselfishness in sharing yourselves and Noah with the rest of us is the most incredible testimony I have ever seen that God truly deserves the glory for EVERYTHING. He has given you a peace and a strength that could ONLY come from Him. Truly, Noah was sent here for the purpose of witnessing to the world in a most unforgettable way, all in seven months, without having spoken a word himself. He is a miracle in the truest sense of the word. We ache for your loss as you return Noah to his Creator, but we rejoice that he will be healed in the most perfect way and will grow up in the most spendid place possible, in Heaven. Certainly, you were chosen, and God will see to it that Noah’s miracle will continue to bless your lives until you meet with him again. I believe he will never be far from his mommy, daddy, and Em! May God wrap all of you tightly in His arms in the coming days and months. Our prayers are with you. We love Noah even though we have not been privileged to meet him. This is a poem that was shared with us. It says nothing you don’t already clearly understand.

    The Chosen Ones

    I had a dream the other night.
    It came to me so clear.
    I stood before the throne of God,
    afraid to come too near.
    God said to me, “I hear your prayers.
    There are answers you can’t find.
    I asked you here to talk to me
    and help to ease your mind.”
    I said,”Well, yes, God, I am disturbed
    about my special one.
    That punishment is awfully harsh.
    Whatever have I done?”
    God looked at me and shook his head
    and said, “You’ve got it wrong.
    I sent this special child to you
    because you are so strong.
    I searched and searched to try and find
    someone with love so rare.
    Parents so unselfish they could
    give that special care.
    I try and save my special gifts,
    like those you’re speaking of,
    for special kinds of parents
    I call the Chosen Ones.
    Of all the ones to choose from,
    I think this I have done.
    Parents who deserve my best,
    an honor you have won.”

  56. Lifting your beautiful family up in prayer on this most difficult day. I found your site through a link on asherandjacob’s website. I spent hours yesterday, reading and praying for you. Not weeping as I normally do when reading about these kids, but rejoicing for you and the place the Lord has brought you to. You are an amazing testiment of the Lord’s love.

  57. We are new to your blog… just found it a few days ago. But we were so touched by your sweet little man and your love for him, you have been in our family’s prayers ever since. Especially today. Know that you have many brothers and sisters in Christ that are lifting you up to our heavenly Father today.

    Carrie and family

  58. Your true testimoney and faith in God has and will touch the lives of thousands. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Much love and peace in the days to come. I love you all – Angie, MO

  59. I am truly inspired and amazed by your faith! I am praying for overwhelming peace for your family. Know that you all are in my heart and prayers today as always. Blessings!

    Your sister in Christ,
    Tammy

  60. Noah,
    You’ve captured the hearts of us all. Through your parents we’ve seen the kind of faith that can move mountains. Thank you for sharing your family with us. My life is forever changed having known about you. May you be held in the palm of your creator’s hand!

  61. Jason, Adrienne, and Emily and the ENTIRE Graves family~
    Everyone else has already summed up everything I wanted to say but I just wanted you to know that you were in our hearts all night last night and all day today. We love you guys and even though we have never met Noah, he has touched our hearts forever. Please give Grandma Kaija a hug for me and God has already blessed you, may the blessings just keep pouring over you!!!

  62. It is hard to type through the tears, but I felt I needed to write and say THANK YOU! Your story reminded me that our children are only on loan from above and I should cherish every moment I have with them. I pray for peace for your family. Next time I turn my earings I’ll be praying for you all!

  63. lifting you and your family up today. I’m sorr yfor your loss. I had a baby die 25 years ago, I so know how you feel. God Blss and keep you all in his care.

  64. You and your family will be in our prayers. I cannot imagine all you are going through. But I praise God that through all of this, you are strong in faith and satan has not snatched that away. Giving your son back to the Lord is not easy. I will pray for strength, comfort, and peace. May God bless you and be close to you.

  65. You are an encouragment to us all. You have kept the faith that so many do not understand. My little, 2 year old, niece died unexceptedly almost 4 years ago and knowing that she is with the
    You are an encouragement to us all. You have kept the faith that so many do not understand. My little, 2 year old, niece died unexpectedly almost 4 years ago and knowing that she is with the Lord is of great comfort. Praise be to the Lord, as He as said, “Bring the little children unto me”, so will your little Noah will be, sitting on the lap of Jesus, how wonderful. My prayers will be with you and especially to little Em, to give you an even greater Peace than you already have. You have stayed strong and have fought a good fight. God’s love and blessings to all.

  66. My heart breaks for you & even though for some reason I know I shouldn’t I cry for you…I can’t imagien the heart ache that you, jason & emily are going through but, I am so thankful to God that He has given you such peace…I pray that God will continue to wrap His arms around you & your family as you let your little boy go…God Bless, Dear.

  67. Noah and your entire family is in my heart, thoughts and prayers today and will be in the days and weeks to come! My heart aches reading about your story, but at the same time, I’m so inspired by your faith and love. You are truely a remarkable family and your children are so lucky and blessed to have parents like you!

    Praying for you!
    The Kolb Family
    Kansas City, MO

  68. As always, my thoughts and prayers are with you all today. I pray for a miracle when the time comes. I pray that if it’s His will that Noah make the sweet journey home, that you all can feel this blanket of love being laid over you from the hundreds, probably thousands, of prayerful voices and hands lifting you up from around the world! May it envelope you in it’s warmth and assist in providing you with the sweet peace you all so deserve during one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful moments you will experience in this life.

    How I wish I could meet you Noah in person. How lucky you are to have the family you have. How lucky you are to be so loved by and life changing people you’ve never even met. How lucky we are to learn from you all.

    An excerpt from my Daily Om – that is fitting for the rest of us:
    Empathy in Action
    An Experiment in Gratitude
    Sometimes we forget to take the time to recognize the richness that defines our lives. This may be because many of the messages we encounter as we go about our affairs prompt us to think about what we don’t have rather than all the abundance we do enjoy. Consequently, our gratitude exists in perpetual conflict with our desire for more, whether we crave time, convenience, wealth, or enlightenment. Yet understanding and truly appreciating our blessings can be as simple as walking a mile in another’s shoes for a short period of time. Because many of us lead comparatively insular lives, we may not comprehend the full scope of our prosperity that is relative to our sisters and brothers in humanity.

    The compassionate gratitude that floods your heart when you come to fully realize your abundance may awaken pangs of guilt in your heart. Be aware, however, that the purpose of such an experiment is to open your heart further in gratitude and compassion. This awareness can help you attain a deeper level of gratitude that will allow you to savor and, above all, appreciate your life with renewed grace.

    Much love to you all!
    AM in Oklahoma

  69. I am so thankful for such an amazing example of trusting in the Lord so much. Thank you for sharing this difficult journey … you have touched my life and I am praying for you and your family today. God will continue to work through you and touch many through this experience. I pray that God wraps His arms tightly around all of you today. In Him, Lauren in CA

  70. We have been reading your blog since our daughter, Michelle Franzen, gave it to us. We have been praying for Noah and your family.
    It is sometimes hard to understand the whys but we will understand some day.
    Your faith is such a witness and testimony to God and we just pray that you will have more grace to be able to stand in the coming days, Our prayers are with you.
    Millie Baumruk

  71. May the Lord wrap you in His loving arms even tighter today and may you continue to feel the peace and grace that you so often refer to. Your family is an incredible testament to the Lord. Thank you Noah.
    —prayers from Washington State

  72. Am so sorry for everything that you had to go through just remember that Everything happens for a reason. God will take care of him and take care of your family as well. God bless you. just remember to pray.

  73. I am thinking of your family and wishing you all the best. My heart is so sad knowing what you have gone through.
    Bless your family and your little boy!

  74. Adrienne, Jason, and Emily,

    I am thinking of you today as you both rejoice and grieve when you send Noah home. Your story has touched all of our lives in the hospital and around the globe. I greatly admire your steadfast faith and loyalty to our Lord through everything you have been through. Not everyone is able to see the gifts you have been given through all of the sadness. May God continue to envelop you with his peace and love, now and forever. I rejoice for Noah’s journey home and know he has a crown fit for a prince awaiting him in heaven. My prayers are with you today and always,

    Sonja, RN
    Denver, CO

  75. You are truly an amazing family. My prayers are with you and your family today. I pray for a miracle but above all I pray for your peace as you allow Noah to rest and to live with the Lord. God Bless you and your family. You have truly touched my soul! The strength and faith that you show is a light that truly shines!

  76. I just learned of your blog, yesterday, from another blog.
    You are in my prayers. My heart is with you, as I try to take in all that I have read about your precious baby Noah.

    Forgive me for being so blunt and/or naive, but I don’t understand how you know today is “the day” for Noah to go to see Jesus ?
    I have read your entries, but have I missed something ?
    I just want to understand everything better.
    Was there something the Drs. told you…that he didn’t have much time left ?
    It seems that you have had this day planned for a few days, from what I have read.

    Is there anyone who could enlighten me with a few more details ?

    Thank you.

  77. You are an amazing family and have touched me deeply. I pray for strength today and the days to come. Your faith in God is something I have never seen before. I admire you for that. I have been reading your blog for months now. I have cried many tears. My heart aches for your family during this time. My thoughts are with you today and the days to come. He will be in good hands soon! Angelika from Parker, CO

  78. Dear anonymous with questions, Noah’s family has felt a peace, which only can come from The Most High, to take their son off of life support today.We are placing him in the hands of God himself. We pray for another miracle to keep him with us here on earth.However, God may have completed his work through Noah already and be calling him home.

    It is a hard thing for our flesh to deal with. But our spirits are truly at peace knowing no matter what Jesus is in control.

  79. Adriene, Jason and family. Our prayers are with you and that precious baby boy today! Your faith has inspired me as a parent to release my children in prayer and faithfulness to God, who is eternal faithful. Thank you for sharing Noah’s journey with us through your beautiful blog entries. God bless ALL of you and continue to bestow peace everyday.
    Andy and Sandy Houltberg

  80. I pray that God will be especially close to your family this weekend. This week I have been struck by the fact that God planned out Jesus’ life and death in the Old Testament with such detail as He shared through the prophets. Know that God knew what you would be going through thousands of years in advance and has a purpose for it – already you have touched many lives through this blog.

    Again, my families prayers are with you.

    Nicole, Ohio

  81. Thank you to the person who responded to my questions about Noah going home to Heaven today. Your explanation about the life-support did, indeed, clear up some confusion for me.
    I truly appreciate you taking the time to interject.

    I will continue to uphold Noah & his family in prayer.

  82. Our prayers are with you and your family!!! Your story has touched so many hearts. Noah is such a precious little boy!!! Thank you for having the strength to share your lives with us.

  83. The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace forever.
    The Lord be gracious to you.
    The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace forever.

  84. Thank you for sharing your story and lives with us. We are definitely thinking of you today as you say goodbye to your precious little angel!

  85. I received your blog from Meghan, Ricky’s mom who I met at Stanford when both our sons were there. My prayers are with all of you today as you continue on this difficult journey. Noah is truly an angel. Have strength today. You are all in my heart and prayers.

  86. I cannot stop thinking of you today. I am so inspired by the endless faith that your family shares, and I am especially touched by your story as I have two children, ages 9 months and 3 1/2 years. You and I were pregnant at the same time, and I am sure we shared similar hopes, dreams, and love for our babies as well. When I look at your dear Noah sleeping, it reminds me of my own baby boy, and I can’t stop weeping for you. I have prayed for a miracle for you, but I also know that you have restored the faith in so many others who, like me, may have needed a reminder of God’s love. Thank you for sharing your story and for your strength. You have helped me gain some perspective that I was lacking, and I will always remember Noah in my heart for that gift. The Lord Bless You and Keep You.

    Kristin, Delaware

  87. Your story has done such good. I can’t find the words to express myself, but thank you for sharing and inviting us to share this with you. I read the book of Philippians with you in mind today: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

  88. I wrote yesterday but as I was thinking about you this morning at 3 a.m. when I couldn’t sleep-God told me to share a song with you by Nicole Nordeman called ‘Someday’. The song is one of the most beautiful that I have heard & to ALL of us that truly believe in our Great & Most High God-we can understand the lyrics & know that even though things may not make sense that all will be known someday when we too-are in His precious arms. I hope this brings you even more peace.

    I believe in the rest of the story.
    I believe there’s still ink in the pen.
    I have wasted my very last day,
    Trying to change what happened way back when.
    I believe it’s the human condition.
    We all need to have answers to why.
    More than ever I’m ready to say that I…
    Will still sleep peacefully
    With answers out of reach from me until…
    Someday all that’s crazy
    All that’s unexplained
    Will fall into place
    And someday all that’s hazy
    Through a clouded glass
    Will be clear at last
    And sometimes we’re just waiting
    For someday
    We are born with a lingering hunger
    We are born to be unsatisfied
    We are strangers who can’t help but wonder & dream about the other side….(chorus)
    Every’s puzzle’s missing piece
    Every unsolved mystery
    More than half of every whole
    Rests in the Hands that hold you for some day.
    And someday all that’s crazy
    All that’s unexplained will be beautiful….beautiful!!

    I feel honored that you have shared your story with so many! May God bless you with an abundance of peace today & in the days to come!

    I know that if you are still enough today that you will be able to hear the angels singing as sweet Noah is welcomed home!

    Sincerely,
    Tracy
    Denver, Co.

  89. Jason, Ade, Em and Noah: Wow…Erin and I, and so many others have been blessed beyond measure with Noah’s life! Thanks so much for opening up and allowing us to grow with and through you. I cannot imagine or pretend to imagine the pain you all have gone through and am truly amazed at your perseverance and example you have displayed for us all. Your deep faith and testimony has set a standard we should all aspire to. We will continue to pray for you…Lots of love. Dustin and Erin Strande

  90. Dear Adrienne & Jason,
    I can’t think of words to write. My heart is full and I just wanted to send this little note to let you know how much I care. Grace and peace be with you today. Love, tasha

  91. Steph directed me to your blog this morning, and I am aching for you all. I wish that the pain I and so many others are feeling for you could actually lessen your burden. I marvel at your strength and faith, and I wish much peace on this day.
    With love from one mother of two to another,
    Jen

  92. The annointed words of Casting Crowns….”I’ll praise You in this storm and I will lift my hands, ’cause You are who You are, no matter where I am. And every tear I cry, You hold in Your hands, you never left my side, and though my heart is torn….I’ll praise you in this storm!” I praise God for being so faithful to those that love Him and trust in Him. The peace that is surrounding your family and touching everyone who’s eyes has been blessed to read the Graves’s family story, is a peace that is incomprehensible to the human mind. Only a BIG God, like the one we are honored to serve, is capable of something as wonderful as that! Again, I will praise You in this storm! Little man…I can’t wait to meet you, you have transformed my life and you are over 1000 miles away from me – what an awsome missionary you are!!!

  93. Oh how I wish I could have been there to touch Noah’s sweet face, and to put my arms around you, Em and Jason. I couldn’t be there, but that’s OK. I know that Noah is in God’s hands, and that His arms are around you all. You have given me so much the last few months. Sharing your words of faith has brought more faith and peace to me. I thank you for that. And for being who you all are. Sweet Noah has touched so many in such a short time, he must be exhausted. But he will be revived in Heaven, and revive all of you with his, and His, undying love. It will be such a blessing to meet all of Noah’s family one glorious day!

  94. I was just emailed your blog site today and I just want to say “thank you.” Thank you for letting so many people into your lives because you have made such a difference in mine. Noah was only here for a short time, and like many have said: “Look at what this little man has accomplished in no time at all by changing so many!!” I will forever be touched by your trials and triumphs as a family, as parents (as a big sister!!), and as individuals living in this world. Your is truly a testimony of the strength that we recieved when know that we are not alone, that God is our Father and Jesus Christ is our Savior….May you have the Peace and Comfort of the Lord this day and always, love and prayers for you all….

    Marianne

  95. I’m a 50 year old man sitting here crying…crying because of the incredible love and grace of our awesome God…crying because of the wonderful touch He has given me through you over these past months.

    I’ve been thinking of you and praying for you especially through this past week and today. I keep thinking about a young woman years ago who tried to swim from Catalina Island to the shore of California. The fog was thick, and she finally gave in to fatigue. When she was on the boat she could see through the fog, and realized she was only a half mile from shore. I think far too often we don’t realize how close that shore really is. I would imagine by this time your little Noah has made it across and is on the shore, Jesus holding him in His loving arms. Thank you for your many, many Holy Spirit-filled words over the past months. Praise His wonderful name.

  96. My prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for expressing such beautiful thoughts about your child. God has used you to inspire many people and will continue to do so.

  97. Your baby has left a huge footprint on my heart. I just read this blog yesterday. I will never forget Noah’s story nor can I forget your faith and strength. My heart and prayers are with you.
    LOVE From,
    San Antonio TEXAS

  98. You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day. I know the ache of losing a child, but by the grace of God we make it through those rough times in life. Noah’s story has been a true testimony of God’s love. God’s blessings.

  99. Adrienne and Jason – Can’t get you off my mind. You will be in my heart from now and beyond forever. When my day comes to go home, I will be very anxious to meet Noah.

    My deepest love and peace for you – Dawn Hoskey

  100. You are an inspiration and a true woman of faith! God bless your precious family. Please know that there is a large group of teachers in Fort Collins who are praying for you and who admire your faith and passion for Jesus!

  101. I’ve been reading for a while, but I’ve never commented before. But I have been praying for your whole family, especially little Noah. I praise God for the work He has done in your lives, and I pray that He will continue to give you His peace, as you trust entirely in Him.

  102. I am a mother whose 4 yr. old daughter was killed tragically in 2001. My life has been an ongoing challenge since then, but God has poured out His spirit and His blesssings in my life…and through my pain and brokeness continues to use me and the death of my daughter to bring glory to Himself. I talked to some close friends at the hospital hours after her death and made the statment that ‘Teagan (my daughter) must have been an angel- I just never saw her wings’. I am glad that God gave you the gift of your son, Noah for as long as He did. You will be blessed forever and many of us too, because of his life and your response to his death. Prayers, care and blessings on your whole family. Stop by and read my story if you would like to ‘glimpse your future’ through my blog. Sweetly~

  103. I was introduced to you and your family through a friend of mine who has a link to your blog. Thank you so much for sharing Noah with all of us. It truly was a blessing getting to know him and your family a little, even though we have never met. Your strength inspires me greatly. I will pray for you, Noah and your entire family each day of my life.

    Aisha,

    South Dakota

  104. You are a amazing family!! I don’t think I could have so much peace if my son was in the same position.

    You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

    God Bless

    From California

  105. How I missed this blog until now, I have no idea. Today is Friday. My heart and my prayers are with your family! May our Precious Father envelop you in His almighty arms of comfort! We have one who was born around the time of your precious Noah. Please know that your whole family will be lifted up in prayer!

    Renee and family in Colorado

  106. I found the link to your blog on Babycenter.com yesterday, and only wish I had found it sooner so that I could have prayed for your family longer. Thank you so much for sharing Noah and your family with the world. As many of said, you have touched many lives, and have touched me in a way that I will be forever grateful. As a mother, I wept for you and the decision you have had to make, but I am so glad you have peace. You have strengthened my faith and my love for our Savior. Thank you, and I will continue prayer for your family.

    Stacy from Florida

  107. I have read all of your entries and I am sitting here SOBBING and asking WHY. I am a believer, but I guess I have a long way to go because I just don’t even know what to do with this. I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot even fathom your pain, faith, or strength. I do hope you continue to post your thoughts because we all have a lot to learn from you. Your son is so very beautiful and I pray that God is holding him right now and I pray for your family to have peace.

  108. I want you to know that our family is praying for you, and we will continue to do so for as long as we can. Like so many others who have shared in your stories of Noah, we don’t know you, but have been so impacted by your lives. Thank you for that.

    I’m sure you know just how many people have been praying for you, but I wanted to point out a few blogs I found that were dedicated to Noah this week. There were some very sweet posts and you probably have seen some of them already. But maybe you’ll want to read them when you have more time. If so, here they are:

    http://www.heidijowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.com
    http://www.karennkool.blogspot.com
    http://www.haszblahs.blogspot.com
    http://www.franzenfam.blogspot.com
    http://www.kimosd.blogspot.com
    http://www.xanga.com/kellyhasz
    http://www.theeverydaymom.com

    Bless you guys, and peace be with you.

  109. Christ Jesus…
    our soon and coming King…
    move with compassion by Your Spirit
    upon Jason.
    upon Adrienne.
    upon Emily.
    pour out Your Spirit. . pour Yourself out. . . we ask You… How far does Your love go? How far has it gone?
    The Lord is gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. Merciful and compassionate.

    Name above every Name.

  110. p.s.
    I will forever remember Noah singing that silly fuzzy bear song.
    Thanks for the memory 🙂

    Have I made it clear that you, sweet Graves family, have melted my heart?!
    Every one of you, grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles and mostly NOAH!

  111. My class wanted me to let you know that they have been praying for Noah’s miraculous healing or homecoming. Though they realized that these were one and the same. Both also pertain to Noah remaining here on earth or going to be closer with Jesus.

    They wished they could have gotten on a plane to come bring hugs and a lot of “Praise Jesus” from Seoul, especially for the ‘gift’ Noah and you have been in their lives.

    We are and will be standing in prayer with you and for you.

    They wanted to share a part of scripture we read on Friday:
    Psalm 46:10-11
    “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The LORD Almighty is with us; the GOD of Jacob is our fortress. Selah.

    Noah has touched more lives around the world than most of us will do in a lifetime of opportunities. Thank you, Graves Family, for sharing your story and hearts.

    I want to add Psalm 130
    ….I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope….

  112. A- God has blessed you with wisdom and faith to use it to bless others. Onward sister …I hope to meet you and hold Noah one day in heaven!

    From my heart to yours…. ; )

  113. WOW! I am blown away by how uplifting you are. That is amazing. I know God as my personal savior, but to loose a child and be at peace, that would be so hard as I am sure it is but you are so encouraging and an amazing woman and have an amazing family! God Bless You!!!
    Katie Meester
    NE
    http://www.babyhomepages.net/meesterfamily

  114. I’ve been reading your blog for months..since Beth put us in touch. You have so honored GOD with your testimony…may HE grant you peace and continued healing in the time to come. He has to be SO very pleased with you. We are just a part of the Hasz family…and you’ve touched us all.

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