A Sacred Milestone

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A Sacred Milestone: Celebrating 70 Years of Grace and Resilience

​Scripture Readings

​“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” – Psalm 139:13-14

​“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24

​“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12

​“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26

​Devotion

Seventy years ago today, a beautiful story began. Long before the world knew Ross—before the victories, the quiet trials, the diagnosis in 2009, or the health battles of this past year—God knew him. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit looked upon him in his mother's womb and lovingly knit him together. Ross was created intentionally, fearfully, and wonderfully made to be a man of profound faith, a loving husband, and a devoted servant of the Lord.

​Today is a milestone marked by the abiding faithfulness of our Triune God. As Psalm 118 reminds us, "This is the day the Lord has made." Every single morning that Ross wakes, takes a breath, and chooses to love, pray, and persevere, it is a day authored by the Creator. Even when the body grows weary or the medical journey feels heavy, this day belongs to the Lord—a canvas for joy, gratitude, and deep love.

​Reaching the age of 70 brings a holy perspective. Psalm 90:12 asks God to "teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." Numbering our days does not mean counting them with fear; it means recognizing the precious value of every moment. Ross’s life is a living testament to that godly wisdom. Through living with HIV for over a decade and facing cancer this past year, his life has never been defined by illness, but by resilient faith. His heart is anchored in the peace that eternity is secure, and that each day on this earth is a gift to be cherished, shared, and lived for God's glory.

​Ross, you are a remarkable man. Your life speaks volumes of what it means to be held by grace and surrounded by a love that stands firmly beside you through every season.

​As you step into your 70th year, may you feel the deep truth of the blessing from Numbers: May the Father protect you. May the Son shine His healing light and grace upon you. And may the Holy Spirit wrap you in a peace that surpasses all understanding.

​A Birthday Prayer for Ross

Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—we praise You today for the gift of Ross’s life. Thank You for sustaining him, for creating him so wonderfully, and for guiding him to this milestone of 70 years. Lord, we ask for Your continued strength, comfort, and healing over his body as he navigates his health. Bless him deeply today. Let him feel the warmth of Your face shining upon him, and fill his heart with Your perfect peace. Thank You for the love and devotion shared in our marriage. In Jesus' name, Amen.

​The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

​BELIEVE, OBEY, BE BLESSED AMEN BOBBA

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