The arrival of Israel David Dillard to the 19 Kids and Counting clan definitely brought more joy to the family. However, it appears that not a single member of the brood could match the excitement and happiness of Israel's father, Derick Dillard, who even penned a letter to his son hours before the latter was born. In an entry posted in The Dillards blog site, Derick shared to his little boy just how much he and wife Jill Dillard cherish and love him.

Apart from the letter, Derick included a biblical quote from Isaiah 44:21-28 which he said to be the verse he read the morning Israel was born. The Dillards' first born child entered the world on April 6, following 70 hours of intensive labor by Jill who initially wanted to undergo natural childbirth. Despite this plan, the couple eventually had to agree on a C-section delivery instead to guarantee the safety of both mother and child. While the highly coveted birthing procedure was not followed, the two said that they are confident that Jill will give birth to their succeeding children naturally, according to People.

Read the full text of Derick's beautiful letter to his son here.

"To Israel, my firstborn son,    

I read these verses in my time with the Lord this morning, and I wanted to pen them specifically for you.  Just as the Lord spoke of the nation of Israel, I pray He would accomplish in you.  I pray that you, Israel, whom I already love more than anybody, except mom of course J, would turn to the Lord early in your life and glorify Him with all that is within you.      

Though we are still waiting on your physical birth, I want you to know that mom and I are already praying for your spiritual birth.  The world has not met you yet, but the Lord our God already knows everything about you and who you will be.  After all, He is forming you as we speak!  How awesome is our God, the God of Israel!  None shall prevail against Him!        

It is so neat to have felt you kicking, punching, and turning inside of mom for months now.  Even if it doesn't always feel the best for mom, I know the joy you bring makes it up for her. J        

I pray that you will continue to grow, in stature, in knowledge, and in wisdom, true wisdom, that is from the Lord.  And know that I love you son and I always will, no matter what.  I will say it again... I love you Israel! 

-Your daddy"