Happy 28th Birthday, Jon Alex. - by Becky Davidson

Jon Alex,

How is it possible that you're 28 today? I remember that day like it was yesterday. It was a quiet Sunday afternoon. The plan was to be induced the next morning, but in true Jon Alex fashion, you had your own schedule.

As your dad and I drove to the hospital, we suddenly realized what day it was — exactly one year to the hour since we’d made that same drive, only then it was to grieve a life lost through miscarriage. But on that very same date, God redeemed what was broken. And He did it through you.

From the moment you arrived, you changed everything.

My beautiful son, there aren't enough words in this world to express how deeply proud I am of you. You've impacted countless lives — and you’ve done it without ever speaking a word.

You carry yourself with a grace that humbles everyone around you. You’ve faced challenges that most of us will never fully understand — unable to communicate your needs in the ways we take for granted — and yet, you live with joy, with strength, with quiet dignity.

Your smile lights up the darkest rooms. Your perseverance speaks louder than words ever could. And your life? It preaches a Gospel that reaches hearts in ways sermons never will.

There are days I wish I could understand everything you’re thinking and feeling. I know there’s so much more within you than we’ll ever fully grasp. But I also know this: You pray. I believe with my whole heart that in those still, sleepless hours of the night, when I’m wishing you would sleep so I could too — you are doing Kingdom work. You’re interceding for people, for this world, for those you love.

Since your dad passed, you’ve become one of my greatest companions. Somehow, you’ve known when I was having a hard day — offering an extra hug or the sweetest kiss on the cheek, as if to say, “I see you, Mom.” You’ve loved me with such tenderness, and again — all without saying a word.

I know you miss your dad. I do too. But I also know he’s still with us — cheering you on, cheering us on — waiting for the day when all things are made new. I picture you two playing basketball together in Heaven, and my heart soars! 

Your dad used to say it best:

“Jon Alex has taught me more about how to live than any scholar or teacher ever could.”

And he was right. Your life is a living testimony — a constant reminder of what it means to love well, to endure, to hope, and to trust in the unseen. You point everyone you meet straight to Jesus.

Jon Alex, you are one of the greatest gifts God has ever given me. Today, I celebrate you — your life, your purpose, your incredible spirit.

I'm so grateful to be your mom. It is the honor of my life.

I love you,

Mom