Today's Morning Prayer

"Dear Heavenly Father, please allow the judge to show us favor today.  But, if not, let Seth learn his lesson and accept his responsibilities for his actions.  Thank you for 18 years of life for Seth today."  I said this prayer right before we headed out to the courthouse this morning.  Seth received a speeding ticket a week after he was hit by a drunk driver and at the same place.  This is how our morning went.

Judge:  Officer, tell me what happened.
Police Officer: (states that Seth was speeding in a 35mph zone)
Judge:  Seth, how do you plead?
Seth:  Guilty, sir.
Judge: Officer, how did Seth respond?  Was he polite?
Police Officer:  Yes, sir.  He was very polite and respectful.
Judge (talking to us):  Is there anything else to add?
Me:  I just came today because Seth was 17 at the time of offense.  He is scheduled to leave for military service in July, and we wanted  to take care of any responsibilities so it would not effect his departure date.
Prosecutor:  Seth is scheduled to leave July 15?
Me:  Yes, sir.
Prosecutor:  Has he signed a contract already?  One that he cannot get out of?
Me:  Yes, sir.
Prosecutor:  You are aware that any pending court case supersedes his military duties?
Me:  Yes, sir.
Prosecutor:  I see that today is Seth's birthday.  He is now 18.
Me:  Yes, sir.
Judge:  Yes, I just noticed that.  And he has no offenses against him.
Prosecutor:  Your Honor, I ask that the court dismiss the offense against Seth.
Judge to Seth:  The offense of speeding against you is dismissed.  You are only responsible for court costs and there will be nothing on your driving record.  Thank you for your service to our country.
Seth:  Thank you, sir.

Yes, God did show favor.  But, even if the case was not dismissed, there is still favor shown.  God knows the beginning and the end and what is best for us all.

Despite all the heartache this guy has caused, I cannot help but love him to pieces.  I pray God's protection over his heart and life.