Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #33

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

boxed-goods

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

  • Lydia and I were in Illinois early in the week, and we enjoyed hanging out with my family. Once again, it was the break I didn’t know I needed! When we flew back to Fargo on Wednesday, a friend picked us up at the airport. Then, I worked on Thursday and Friday, while Lydia went to daycare to see friends. Our travels were well-timed because her preschool had a few days off. (It was an added blessing because I didn’t know that when I booked our trip to Illinois!)
  • At my mom’s 60th birthday party, she asked for donations for the local food pantry in lieu of gifts. The table we set aside to receive the items was not big enough! Boxes and bags lined the floor as well. Later, everything was sorted and re-boxed for delivery. (See the picture above!) The monetary donations will also be used to provide for those most in need. These boxes and donations represent God’s abundant grace in the generosity of people in my hometown (and surrounding areas). Many thanks!
  • As I talked with my mom on the phone today, she explained how God protected her (and my dad) yesterday! My parents were almost hit by an out-of-control black SUV, careening over a bridge. Mom said at the very last instant it veered away from them. My dad estimated the vehicle was going around 90 mph; it had also blown a tire. As my parents continued down the road, they saw tire tracks four different times where the SUV crossed the median. Thanks, Lord, for watching over us and sending Your Angels to protect us (see Psalm 91:11)! I’m so glad they were alright, and that God still has work for them to do here on Earth! 

*******

These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Fruit, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

A Birthday Bash Rehash!

This past weekend, Lydia and I flew to Illinois for my mom’s 60th birthday. My sister and I threw her a party, but since I live twelve hours away, planning was a team effort!

My mom worked over thirty years as a florist, arranging flowers for weddings, holidays, and funerals. She was always saddened by the fact people typically only send flowers after someone has died. So, Mom wanted this party to be a celebration of her life while she’s still here to enjoy it.

Why wait until someone dies to show your love?

img_3827

It seemed fitting that people came to honor my mom this weekend! She loves to encourage others, and gives accordingly. Many people have benefited from Mom’s kindness and generosity over the years. Indeed, she inspires me to use my own gifts to serve others!

The party was an open house, and Mom requested no gifts. Instead, she asked for donations of canned items to the local food bank. (See the last picture below!)

Even on her birthday, my mom was thinking of others!

fc-country-club

I knew we would have a good time, because my family knows how to have fun! But, the party was even better than I could have expected. Everything turned out perfectly.

It was a good reminder for me to just let God take care of our ‘plans.’ He always does an excellent job of providing just what we need!

As I looked around the party room, I could see evidence of God’s grace. The food was plentiful and delicious. But really, the atmosphere was key. The mood was warm and welcoming, inviting everyone to sit and stay awhile.

The relationships were what made the party special!

img_3807

In our small farming community, we knew some people wouldn’t make it because of the Harvest. Even so, we were so glad a few farmers left their fields early to come to the party. (That rarely happens because time is so precious!)

It’s a busy time of year, and some people couldn’t make it due to previously scheduled trips or other events. That’s understandable! Still, we still had a steady stream of people throughout the night. In fact, one couple postponed their special anniversary trip because they “wouldn’t miss it for anything.” 😀

I enjoyed seeing people at the party that I haven’t seen in quite awhile. It was exciting to catch up with dear family and friends. (Since I moved away six years ago, I don’t always stay in the loop.) I also loved meeting newer friends and introducing them to Lydia!

img_3824

On Saturday night, we had a wide variety of backgrounds present. It was another instance of God’s grace bringing so many people together for a common purpose. Praise God!

I even saw people sitting together that never would have done so previously. People were laughing to the point of tears, overflowing with gratitude. Only God could have restored those relationships—and what an awesome job He has done!

Throughout the evening, I heard comments, such as, “We haven’t been to a party in forever!” or “What a great reason to get together and celebrate!” Sometimes, we can focus on surviving the daily grind or acquiring more stuff, instead of what’s really important.

img_3892

It’s also tempting to focus on what is ‘wrong’ in our lives…what is not going well, who slighted us, or how we will make ends meet. But none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.

My mom’s birthday party was so much fun! She has spent years encouraging others, and so many people showed up in her honor. It was amazing to see!

As the evening came to a close, my very wise mother said, “People are our treasures—the only gifts that will last. We can always get more stuff, but people cannot be replaced.”

Let’s remember to celebrate one another more often!

**********

God, thanks for the relationships You have given us. Please help us to be an encouragement to others and use our gifts as a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: How can you use your gifts and talents to be an encourager?

Task: Write a thank you note to someone—or call them just to catch up!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #32

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

sunset-sky

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

  • This week was another restful week. Actually, it was quite busy…but I just took each thing as it came instead of spinning my wheels to get ahead. That really helped me not feel overwhelmed. By God’s grace, I decided if something didn’t get done, it was not a big deal. Thankfully, the most important tasks got finished!
  • I had many things to do because…Lydia and I flew to see family and friends in Illinois! We went to celebrate my mom’s birthday and host a party for her. My mom loves a good party (she’s an excellent host!), but it has been years since we had one in her honor! Perhaps I will write more on this later!
  • Lydia’s nearly a pro at flying, having been on approximately 25 flights in the last few years. No, we have NOT traveled to that many places…but rather we have at least two connecting flights each time we fly! It’s fun, and for this trip, the time-savings quickly outweighed the cost-savings of driving twelve hours. And, Lydia loves all the sight-seeing and people watching in each airport!
  • Depending on the day, the weather might be similar in Fargo and my hometown in Illinois. Fargo is often cooler, of course! But I have grown used to Fargo’s weather and actually enjoy it. Heading South is a warm welcome, but it can still be difficult to know what to pack. Still, I’m proud of myself for fitting all of my clothes and toiletries with Lydia’s in one suitcase!

*******

These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Procrastination, Wisdom

The Art of Waiting Well

On most Sundays after church, Lydia and I eat lunch and discuss what we learned or did that morning. This week was no different, except, Lydia couldn’t quite recall what Bible story she learned in her class that day.

“Hmmm…let me think…” she said. “Well, there were two girls and a boy.”

That really didn’t ring a bell for me! So I asked Lydia to explain more.

She said, “Um, one girl lived really far away. And, she decided to go home. Then, the other girl told her, ‘Well, I won’t leave you here.”

Lydia continued, “And she told the first girl, ‘So how about I just go with you?!’”

field

I laughed with realization, and half-guessed, “Oh, are you talking about Ruth and Naomi?!”

“Yeah… I think so…” Lydia went on, “And then there was a boy too…” She couldn’t remember anymore details about him!

I loved Lydia’s little paraphrase and the details she focused on. I gave her a quick overview of Naomi, Ruth, Boaz, and Baby Obed. Then, with motherly emphasis, I told her,

“Think about how much Ruth would have missed if she had given up!”

Instantly, I also sensed a lesson for me too.

My circumstances are vastly different, but I understand how difficult it might have been for these two ladies to consistently make good decisions, move forward, and trust God. I’m sure it felt like the odds were stacked against them.

Generally speaking, Lydia and I do well most days. But there are days and seasons when we struggle. The pressure to quit tends to go through cycles, and my determination can wane.

Mostly, these are normal challenges we all face…one way or another.

checkmate

Of course, it’s often easier to procrastinate or abandon a time-consuming project, than stick with it and see it through. It’s hard to hold onto dreams or goals that take a lot of effort…when it takes forever to see results.

I have found most ‘God-projects’ take awhile, though…and are worth it.

It’s also easier as a parent to give in to your child’s demands, rather than stick with the appropriate discipline. It’s another long-term commitment!

But the constant pressure of these challenges can quickly wear me down.

We may have unique struggles, but all of us can feel discouraged and defeated at times.

Some days I go ‘on my merry way’ and everything just works out just fine. But on tough days, it can be tempting to run away (ignore the problems altogether) or run ahead of God (try to fix the problems on my own).

Still, there is a hidden blessing when challenges come.

Yes, that’s when I most remember I need God’s help. In fact, I can be thankful for those times, too, because they help me draw near to Him! When I want to run and hide, let me run to Jesus!

As we come to Him in our weakness, He infuses us with His strength.

The Lord might move in my situation…or He might move me. But I need to let Him make the decision…not me! As I stand firm and wait for Him to act, He prepares me for greater things:

Victory!

As I cling to Jesus, He refines my character and makes me more like Him. The Lord is faithful. Whatever happens, He will work it out for my good and His glory!

patience-is-the-art-of-waiting-well-2

There’s waiting, and then there’s waiting well. While I wait, I can:

Pray for wisdom, grace, and perseverance.

Seek God’s input first. Then ask for outside help, if needed.

Focus…and refocus…on Jesus. He’s the ultimate goal!

Commit my steps to Him. Trust Him for perfect timing.

Remember: I can do difficult things!

Have a good attitude, and make lemonade!

**********

Jesus, thanks for Your grace and strength. Instead of running away or running ahead, help me to run directly to You, Lord. Help me not miss all the good things You have planned for me! Help me persevere. In Your Name, Amen.

Questions: What difficult circumstance(s) are you facing now, that make you want to give up? How can you wait well, with patience and perseverance?

Tasks: Write down your dream or goal. Then, consider what is at stake if you give up. Memorize Philippians 4:13, or another favorite Bible verse.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #31

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

frozen-yogurt

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

  • This week was more restful than expected! I still completed most of my normal activities, but for some reason it felt easier. I think it was primarily God’s grace and faithfulness pulling me through, because I certainly didn’t finish everything on my own! In fact, I postponed a few activities and am catching up on them today.
  • Instead of completing my to-do list each day, I simply did my best before putting it aside. Then, I relaxed by watching a movie with Lydia, accepting an impromptu dinner with some neighbors, reading some books for fun, and practicing some yoga.
  • Throughout the week, I felt God rearranging a few of the tasks…and some ended up not needing to be done after all. If I had rushed ahead to finish these items, I would have been frustrated to do the work for nothing. Thankfully, I let Jesus set the pace, which meant more peace for me!
  • Lydia’s preschool is across the river into Minnesota. This means a little longer drive and more refueling for me! It’s been chilly at the gas pump lately! But, the trade-off is that I am enjoying sunny skies and beautiful fall colors in red, yellow, and orange foliage along the highway!
  • In other news, it took two weeks for Lydia to get enough ‘tokens’ on her chore chart to beat her previous score….but we went out to celebrate with frozen yogurt this weekend! She’s had a better attitude (most days) and is eager to help around the house. Praise God we didn’t have to go another week because she might have lost some steam! 🙂

*******

These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Procrastination

Because He Is Faithful

The last few weeks have been quite full around here … I’m sure you can relate!

I’ve had some awe-inspiring “I-can’t-believe-I-get-do-this” moments and some “not-so-fast-try-again” moments. I’ve had some late nights and a couple early ‘zombie’ mornings, as well. You too?!

These days, I am trying to focus on sleeping more each night and resting more often. But at times, I can still feel overwhelmed! In those moments, it can be difficult to figure out which task needs to be done first. They ALL seem urgent and important!

post-its-all-over

My to-do list often grows faster than I can check tasks off! “To-do or not to-do” quickly becomes the question. I’m sure you’ve been there too!

However, recently, God reminded me He knows the limitations of my day and time. He knows I can’t possibly finish everything at once. He is not the one pressuring me to complete each task…therefore, maybe I am creating my own stress!

As a result, I’ve started to look at things differently…like maybe each task on my should-do list is simply a heavenly heads-up. God already knows I can’t do it all—a lesson I am continually relearning—but He wants me to be in the loop about what is coming.

He is an awesome planner after all!  I keep focusing on working with Jesus, rather than having to accomplish everything on my own. What grace!

So I will continue to pray and prepare wisely throughout the week, but will not worry when things don’t get done. I will work hard, yet stop to take breaks and enjoy life.

I feel better already!

hebrews-10_23

Of course, none of us know what each day will hold—no matter how much we try to schedule it. But I am glad to leave it all in the hands of Jesus.

Because He is faithful, I don’t have to depend on my own understanding. I know He will show me the right path to follow (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Because He is a faithful Provider, I don’t have to worry about making ends meet. I can go to bed at night and rest well, knowing He is watching over me and working on all that concerns me (Psalm 127:2).

When I feel weak, wanting to give up or give in, He gives me the strength to persevere. And because He is faithful, I can do all things He has called me to do, though not necessarily everything I think I should do (Philippians 4:13)!

path-in-the-woods

Yes, because He is faithful, I can be content despite my circumstances (Philippians 4:11). In the midst of trials, I know He will come through for me.

When I don’t measure up, even then, He won’t let me down. When I stumble, I know He is faithful to forgive. His mercies are new every morning and His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9)!

Because He is faithful, I know Jesus will keep His promises (Psalm 145:13). Life is tough, but He will not leave me to fend for myself. So I will let Him lead me and sustain me. He knows exactly what I need!

**********

Jesus, thanks for the daily reminders of Your love and grace. I put my hope and trust in You, for You are faithful. Lord, help me keep the right perspective that I get to do life with You, and don’t have to do it alone. In Your Name, Amen.

Questions: Is there anything you are trying to handle on your own? Can you take it to Jesus and leave it with Him?

Task: Write down a list of all the ways God has been faithful to you.

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #30

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

sunset-over-water

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

  • This week I needed God’s grace on an hourly basis. The beginning of the week is usually busier for me. That’s fairly normal, and most weeks, I just deal with it like everyone else! But this week, I was exhausted—completely drained—by Tuesday morning. I saw a friend when dropping Lydia off at daycare, and I’m sure I interacted with her like a zombie. I didn’t even recognize her at first because I was groggy and the sun was so bright in my eyes! I hadn’t slept well for two nights in a row, and it caught up with me. Yet, God was faithful to provide energy when I needed it most. His grace was sufficient for my weakness!
  • It doesn’t happen often, but I met with several different people throughout the week, some for upwards of two hours each for various reasons. Throughout the course of these conversations, I was able to encourage people from church, work, and other areas of life. I visited with old friends and made some new ones! It was energizing to me when I listened and (hopefully) inspired them in their faith. I was thankful for God’s grace and for all the ways He used me this week!
  • I recently bought a magnetic chore chart for Lydia. It has been interesting to see her strive to meet these daily expectations. Some examples include being respectful, helping with dishes, and picking up her toys. I am thankful for the chart because I can keep her accountable without nagging. In fact, Lydia can clearly see if she is not doing right and has redirected herself on occasion. Praise God! When we review each day, Lydia’s able to acknowledge if she doesn’t deserve a token, but doesn’t get upset at me! It’s also been fun to see her excitement and satisfaction for doing well.

*******

These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Wisdom

Like A Canvas

A few days ago, I took a social media quiz to determine my so-called ‘life quote’. I’m sure you’ve seen similar ‘tests’ regarding personality traits, how good of a friend you are, etc. I generally avoid them, but got sucked into this one nonetheless. 🙂

This is what my results showed:

“Your life is like a canvas: every morning it is up to you to decide if you like to keep on painting the same old picture or create a new one.”

wildflower-fresco

While I don’t think this quote is the ultimate reflection of who I am, it stood out for several reasons. First, I hadn’t seen this quote before, so it made me stop and think.

Second, I have been pleasantly surprised at how much of a mood lifter the recent changes to my home have been. I have seen the value in changing my surroundings, which has prompted me to be open to change in other areas of my life.

Third, the idea of keeping the status quo or creating a new opportunity reminded me of a fun mom’s night out with friends two years ago. A local artist hosted a painting night, with a predetermined picture as the goal.

There were two options and I since I am not super crafty, I decided to go with the easier choice. The end result was supposed to be a silhouette of two song birds on a branch or wire. The little birds looked very cozy against an azure background.

I thought it was so cute, similar to this cheery picture I recently bought for my home.

happy-birds-on-a-wire

At the beginning of our painting session, my friends and I were given the same size canvas and amount of paint, and the same directions and materials. It seemed fairly easy, and the artist gave us pointers as needed.

All was going well until…

I added too much white paint to the blue! I started spreading it around but that only made it worse. Of course I kept smearing the white paint, trying to blend it in…

As you can tell in the picture (below), my results looked nothing like the original plan! I tried to make the birds and the branches. But, it turned into a big mess. Soon, I took a step back and considered my options.

I could keep going and hope the old plan worked out—or I could go another direction entirely. The second option—the obvious choice—was a much better fit for my skill level…

above-the-chaos

Ok, clearly I’m not meant to be a painter! Stop laughing and let me explain!

I decided the white against the dark blue looked a little like a thunderstorm clouds. Or, possibly, a turbulent ocean… I couldn’t quite decide. 😉

Either way, I felt it represented a sense of turmoil.

In the end, I painted tiny v-shaped birds at the top of the clouds (or waves?!) to signify rising above the chaos. I wrote ‘Isaiah 40:31’ in the corner, and decided that was the best I could do! Whew!

isaiah-40_31

As I think about that experience and the ‘life quote’ above, there are a few parallels.

Sometimes our life ‘canvas’ looks good. The brush strokes match up just as we envisioned. Occasionally, smudges or spills can make a big mess—and we feel like we have to start over. But, often, those creations turn out to be the most interesting.

Perhaps we just have to reframe the failure or make it into a new picture!

You might have to take a second look to see the hidden beauty and potential amidst all the smudges. You might not understand all that has happened in your life or how it could possibly turn out well.

Rest assured. You might not see God’s hand in it all. But, trust me—He’s there! He cares deeply about you and is the Master of second chances. It might not look perfect, but God can make our lives into a beautiful masterpiece as we rise above the chaos.

lydia-artwork

The key is letting Him show us what to keep (the old) and what to change (make new). Thank God, the final result is more dependent on Him leading us than our artistic talent!

**********

God, thanks for seeing the beauty within us and for developing it in our lives. Thanks for second chances and new direction. Please continue making us—and remaking us—like You.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: When it comes to being artistic, do you prefer painting, drawing, photography, music, writing, food, or something else? Did you ever have a project that required a do-over…or a complete overhaul?

Task: Make something creative today!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #29

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

leaves

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

  • This week didn’t quite go as planned, but by God’s grace, turned out even better! On Wednesday, we ate dinner with some neighbors, after an impromptu invitation. I was already cooking dinner, yet was easily convinced to abandon my meal pans! Our kids played as we spent time together. We chatted about preschool, house decorating and reorganizing, and more. It was such a blessing! And, the barbecue I had started made great leftovers!

  • On Thursday, Lydia accidentally slept through her ice skating lessons. She ‘volunteered’ to take a nap after preschool, and I enjoyed the peace and quiet! I woke Lydia up after about an hour and half, and started making dinner, completely forgetting about her activity. Since it felt like a low key evening, we enjoyed dinner and even made no-bake cookies… I didn’t remember about the skating lessons until about 9:30pm! It was funny, yet a blessing at the same time. Thankfully, we’ll be able to make up the lesson (and go twice!) this coming week. Should be fun!
  • On Friday, I met with a friend from Lydia’s preschool. We’ve known each other for many years, but not super well. She was not feeling well, and on a whim, I sat with her two little boys while she saw the doctor for some medicine. Then, we hung out at my house before we went back to preschool to pick up our girls. It was a blessing to help my friend and get to know her better!
  • I was running errands with Lydia today, and as we left one store, she said, “Mom, watch me! What is this I am doing?!” Imagine my surprise when I saw Lydia joyfully skipping in the parking lot! “Wow, Lydia! Where did you learn to skip like that?!” I had tried to teach her when she was younger, but had been unsuccessful. I’m proud of her and it served as a good reminder that God’s got her covered!

*******

These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Being Gracious, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting

A Friend Loves at All Times

We have some really cute and funny kids in our neighborhood. For the most part, they all play really well together. And since many of them come over to my house to play, I have a prime opportunity to observe their social interactions.

teddy-bear

In general, Lydia appears to be an extrovert and thrives on being around others. She loves knocking on doors (with permission) to ask if friends can come out to play. Lydia talks about and misses her friends when they are unavailable. Even so, when several of these kids get together, it’s possible someone could feel left out.

Although most parents try to teach their kids to share, use their manners, and be kind, most of us understand how it feels on the other side. We’ve all had those moments.

I like to look out for underdogs and wallflowers and want Lydia to do the same. To help her understand what I mean, she’s had to apologize on occasion for hurting someone’s feelings. I make her ‘take a break’ from playing with friends when tensions arise…because I don’t want her to take them for granted.

I wish it was always that simple!

We also role play different scenarios, where Lydia is ‘left out’ or where she stands up for someone who is. I regularly challenge Lydia to be on the lookout for someone who needs a friend. It doesn’t always work out as I hope. But when someone is left out, everyone else also misses out… on what that person has to offer.

As I talk with the other parents, we compare notes. It’s good to be on the same page!

proverbs-17_17

I suppose the concept of ‘being a friend’ hits home for me because I have relied so much on my friends these last few years. Lydia does not realize this just yet…but we would’ve never made it without God’s grace and all the loving support we received, from people near and far.

When Dave was sick, friends and family around the world—in England, Greece, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, not to mention all over the United States—prayed for us and helped us. Almost every week, we received something encouraging in the mail: Cards, gifts, handmade items, food deliveries, books, and more.

Many of the Fargo friends who played such an important role in our cancer journey have moved away for various reasons. But from my limited perspective, I like to think that perhaps God had them in Fargo because they had a special part to play in our story.

It is fascinating to think of how God orchestrated all these peoples’ lives to intersect them with ours when we needed it most. Only He could set up such perfect timing!

They stood with us during our roughest moments. And when our faith faltered, these friends pointed us to Jesus. When we had no strength of our own, they carried us to Him.

Friends mowed our lawn each week, watched Lydia at a moment’s notice (and kept her overnight), or took our dog, Britain, for weeks at a time. Yes, these friends were the hands and feet of Jesus in ways we had never seen before!

britain

Thank you. I am still in awe.

Of course, this does not diminish the significant role our own families played… but indeed, many of those friends and neighbors became like family! Without a doubt, Lydia and I are doing well because of ALL the loving sacrifices made on our behalf!

I hope Lydia understands: When you’re at your worst, a true friend is still loyal.

Like a golden retriever! 🙂

It has come full circle for me lately. In many cases, I am now praying for and encouraging dear friends all over the world in their own trials. It is such an honor to return the favor!

Sooo…This week Lydia and I are reviewing Proverbs 17:17 (above) and parts of 1 Corinthians 13. These verses have been good reminders for me too! And though some friends have moved away, God has also given me many new friendships. He is so, so good to me!

**********

Gracious God, thanks for dear friends and family. Thanks for the encouragement You provide through them. Help us love one another! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What does friendship mean to you? When was the last time you told your friends and family that you love and appreciate them?