Creator of all life,

You ushered this precious little one into the world
And all who love her are in awestruck gratitude. 

But learning to live is hard work.
Discovering how to parent is monumental.
And shocking and traumatic—certainly new!

Show this little one how to get nourishment.
Help her accept what is good for her.
May she relax at her mother’s breast;
May she find comfort in her father’s arms.

When her cries demand relief,
bring peace.
When the milk hasn’t arrived,
provide patience.
When sleeplessness brings tears and irritation,
send grace.

Give the new mother rest even when
sleep is impossible.
Give her strength to pick up, hold,
and feed yet again.
Give the new father peace when fears mount.
Give him empathy to affirm
and assist his partner.

Give them both wisdom to understand
this unique and special child,
what she needs, what will soothe her.

Bring their tribe around to assist.
Help grandparents , aunts, uncles, and friends
know what to suggest and how to encourage;
when to speak and when to be silent;
to withhold opinion,
and instead offer helping hands.

If they are far away,
bring others to fill in.
Reassure distant family they are not forgotten.

For the inevitable unsolicited advice,
help them to graciously filter what is for them
and what can be set aside.

Provide effective and helpful caregivers,
doctors, lactation specialists
to assist with any health concerns.

You Lord, who knit this one together in her
mother’s womb, see her and know her need.
So help her parents trust her to you,
their almighty protector.
Help them know you have equipped them
and will enable them.

Lover and Giver of the gift of children,
help the new family to perservere.
Give hope that it gets easier,
that routine, sleep, and fun will return.

May your Spirit fill them with love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, and self-control.

Help them make it through the first tough weeks,
and in the midst of the chaos and stress,
to notice the moments of wonder
as they see the miracle that their union has born;
the precious life you have gifted to them.

And may this little one know
she is dearly and exuberantly
safe, wanted, cared for,
and loved.

Psalm 139:13–14; James 1:5; Galatians 5:22–23; Psalm 127:3