Birthdays in Heaven?

Do they celebrate birthdays in heaven? The reason I ask is, it’s my son Christopher’s birthday today and that’s exactly where he is—in heaven.

Ironic, isn’t it, that his birthday is April 1? We always laughed about that.

But back to birthdays in heaven. I don’t know if they are celebrated or not, but I do know this: There are parties!

Remember the story that Jesus told of the prodigal son? It was about a boy who ran away from home, only to later come to his senses and return to his father. Upon his return, his father threw a great party for him and celebrated.

Jesus preceded this great story by saying, “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10). Sounds like a party to me!

When a party is done right, you have family, friends, and those you love around you. Gifts are given in honor of the one whose birth is celebrated. There is often a meal, always a cake, and the obligatory singing of “Happy Birthday to You!”

Christopher is certainly with family in Heaven. He is there with his grandmother (my mom), Charlene,whom he was very close to. He is also there with my father, his grandfather, Oscar Laurie. Joining them are my grandparents, whom we called “Daddy Charles” and “Mama Stella.” As a matter of fact, Christopher’s first daughter is named after his great-grandmother, Stella McDaniel. Christopher’s second daughter, Lucy Christopher Laurie, is named after him.

I know in heaven there is feasting and family. Joy and happiness. No pain.

I miss my boy with all of my heart and look forward to the day I will see him again. He would be 36 years old if he were here with us.

Happy birthday, Christopher David Laurie.