Tag: thankful

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Wisdom

The Problem With Too Much Stuff

I’ve been spring cleaning ever since having my water heater replaced earlier this month! Long overdue, I’m donating, selling, returning, replacing, upgrading, and throwing away various items around the house. Old books, dirty rugs, faded towels, clothes, toys, etc.

Over the weekend, I bought two new dresses (same style, different colors!). I’m excited to wear them and it was fun to buy something just for myself. I don’t do that often.

Back at home, however, I had a problem. My closet was already stuffed!

clothes in closet

I saw two dresses I never wear, including one I bought at a resale shop…because it was a good deal. 🙂 Knowing I’d never wear them, I called a local consignment shop.

As I made room in my closet, I grabbed two more dresses I received in a friendly swap. I soon discovered other items, too.

Uncomfortable. Too long. Too short. Wrong shape. Wrong color.

Quickly, I pulled clothes from my closet, tossing them on the bed. Two shirts still had tags. A few items were resale pieces I didn’t wear after all. Some never fit well in the first place.

I had a huge pile after gathering dresses, skirts, and shirts. I made a separate pile for later of winter sweaters and jeans. I also tossed in a pair of never-worn shoes and a plethora of colorful scarves, hats, and purses.

It feels good to see space between items now!

For the record, I still have plenty of clothes! But now, I have better idea of what is in my closet, and I’ll donate what doesn’t sell. I hate wasting money on stuff that goes unused.

stack of clothes

In contrast…

About a month ago, I bought Lydia new gym shoes for a ‘sports sampler’ class through our park district. She outgrew last year’s sneakers, and clearly, flip flops and princess heels would not work!

In the class, Lydia has learned about soccer, basketball, baseball, and bowling, among others. I didn’t tell her about it before we went to the shoe store, though. So, she didn’t request or realize she needed new shoes.

But I did.

I wanted Lydia to be prepared and gladly paid for what she needed. She was thrilled when we found a light-up pair of sneakers. They were both functional (my goal) and flashy (her goal)! I enjoyed seeing Lydia’s excitement… “Thanks, Mom! You’re the best!”

Thus, Lydia got new shoes, while I removed old items that should’ve been gone years ago!

sneakers

Perhaps we all have too much stuff. Sure. However, the real problem comes when we forget Our Provider by always trying to provide for ourselves.

It’s the subtle difference between buying something I really want…and buying it with gratitude, acknowledging God’s gracious provision. Sometimes, this means just window shopping. Occasionally, it’s purchasing two dresses that make me feel beautiful.

Obviously, we don’t need more stuff! God does call us to be faithful stewards of what He has already entrusted to us. Yet, He also enjoys lavishing His grace and love upon us.

If I view a sale as my only chance to get something good, that’s the wrong motive. When I have the right perspective (and budget), I can freely buy something. Often, I can walk away from a sale altogether, knowing my money is better spent elsewhere.

To be fair, I know some very generous bargain hunters. These ladies find deals, give wonderful gifts, and unselfishly donate to others. Most of them have an entire closet dedicated to gift-giving. They are always prepared, and they’ve taught me so much!

Matthew 6_30-33

In these verses, I’m reminded God knows all of our needs before we do. He takes pleasure in giving because He loves us (not because of anything we do). That’s grace!

A good, good Father, God often provides for us before we realize the need. He wants us to ask, yes, but He is generous even when we don’t. He knows the Plan (His Plan); He prepares us for what is ahead; and blesses us to be a blessing to others.

But we have to let Him.

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Heavenly Father, You are our extravagant Provider! Thanks for giving us all we need. Help us be content…not preoccupied with getting for ourselves, but receiving what we need with open hearts. Help us spend our money wisely and cheerfully give to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Have you ever sold anything on consignment? Has this post made you rethink any purchases? Godliness with contentment is great gain!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #5

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!

tulips

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

  1. This week was unusual in that I got a new water heater on Monday! But first, I had to “rough it” for a few days. I was so grateful for God’s provision. Be sure to read all about it in ‘Water Heater Heroes’.

2. On Monday, Lydia and I saw a friend from church at the bookstore in the mall. She helps with the children’s ministry and knows Lydia. She gladly helped us find a Phillips, Craig & Dean CD, which Lydia has been asking for since we saw their Christmas concert in December. We have since enjoyed singing many of the familiar songs.

3. Starting with the new water heater, this week turned out to be heavy in the home improvement area. (Nothing else major, and I am thankful for simple fixes.) Several electronic items, from games to tv remotes, needed new batteries. Light bulbs always need replaced, and many of them are difficult to reach. This week it’s a light in the garage door opener. I’ll have to ‘phone a friend’ since I can’t figure out how to get the cover off. While light bulbs are relatively minor, I am thankful for the kindness of others!

4. This week, I needed an extra dose of God’s grace for parenting. Yes, I lost my temper a few times when Lydia was being disobedient or not listening. Later, I apologized, but God gently reminded me to lay aside my agenda and play with Lydia or read to her. We enjoyed finding hidden objects in a picture book, reading together, and talking about our day. Many times, Lydia said spending time together was her favorite part of the day!

5. This year, I’m focusing on implementing more rest in my daily and weekly routine. It’s still a struggle at times to stop and take a break, but I managed to soak my sore feet while reading. (Yay, me!) Lydia was very interested in this, so I let her try it out too. She loved it! Interestingly, it opened up dialog about being a servant to others, and I explained the story of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet (see John 13). I was thankful for the opportunity to show-and-tell my little girl about Jesus.

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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

Water Heater Heroes

Last Saturday, I was exercising in my basement when I heard: “Um, Mom, come in here! Someone peed on the floor!”

 “What?! Lydia!” I grilled her thoroughly about all the possibilities. “I didn’t do it, Mom.”

(Hmmm, who did she think peed on the floor?!)

towels

Well, the floor was definitely wet. I grabbed a towel and mopped up the hand-sized spot. Then, I started investigating and found the surrounding area was damp too. Hastily, I called my neighbor who was the plumber when my house was originally built.

Now, that’s God’s grace!

My neighbor came right away. He discovered the water heater needed replaced. Though, he was supposed to leave town within the hour. He couldn’t alter his plans…nor did I expect him to.

Yet, he stayed to help! The wet area was relatively small, and we hoped to salvage the carpet once it dried. We peeled back the carpet along an entire wall to expose the wet padding underneath (which I tossed). To do this, we had to unload and move two bookcases. Then, I borrowed his industrial-sized fan to dry the wet area.

fan under stairs water heater 1

I hadn’t showered yet on Saturday when this all happened! I thought about bathing at a friend’s house or staying at a hotel. But, all things considered, heating water on the stove seemed like a perfect solution. We still had cold water, electricity, comfortable beds, plenty of food, clean dishes and clothes… I was set for days without my hot water heater! And, I know many people around the world do not have easy access to clean water, let alone the luxury of hot water.

While it was a little inconvenient, it was not unbearable. You see, we do not have to be afraid of bad news or problems. Instead, let’s have confidence in the Lord, and watch Him take care of us! (See Psalm 112:7)

On Monday morning, my water heater was replaced with a new, more energy-efficient one. Praise God, the warranty was still valid for three months! My carpet was also restretched to its original form (with a new pad underneath). I enjoyed talking to the kind, older gentleman who helped me. He laid the carpet several years ago before we moved in, and grew teary-eyed as I told him some of my story.

pot of water

I needed God’s grace and help because I didn’t know how to fix these problems on my own. He showed me favor in the following ways:

  • We were home when the leak happened and we avoided water all over my basement. This is especially significant given our recent travels. It could have been disastrous even if we were just running errands in town.
  • Lydia noticed the wet floor and told me right away. Later, I apologized for being upset and thanked her for speaking up. I don’t think the floor had been wet for long!
  • My neighbor was home; I caught him just before he was supposed to leave town.
  • He was willing to help and promptly came over. Thank You, God, for good neighbors!
  • We found the problem quickly and my neighbor knew what to do about it.
  • I had washed dishes and laundry that morning, so had plenty of fresh items to use.
  • The perfectly-timed warranty saved me some money. The new water heater also has a good warranty (let’s hope I don’t need it!).
  • My neighbor recommended the man who fixed my carpet. It was good I called when I did, because he is usually booked several weeks out. He was able to squeeze me in that day, after finishing another job earlier than planned. (Praise God!) I paid a very fair price and was saved the stress of having to call other people. He even vacuumed the area and helped me move the heavy bookcases back along the wall!
  • Our city is switching to a new water source in June, so now I’ll have a new, upgraded water heater with better water.
  • Moving the bookcases revealed several books I no longer need. I donated the books and a few other household items, and now I have some extra space. 🙂

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Heavenly Father, thanks for covering this situation with Your undeniable grace. Thank You for giving me favor and restoring my home. Please bless these men who helped me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What’s the worse home disaster you have had? Can you see how God helped you through it?

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Travel

Finding Grace #4

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!

heart cloud

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

  1. On Monday, I had a ‘12-Hour Turnaround‘ on our road trip back to ND. I am so thankful Lydia is a good traveler; she didn’t notice my funky mood. She happily gazed out the window and pointed out shapes and creatures in the clouds. The rest of the week was spent getting back into our routine after traveling. And, I have been thanking God for His work in my life.

2. On Monday, we were in the car so long the radio repeated songs two or three times each. My heart has been full this week as I overhear Lydia singing worship choruses, while playing or trying to fall asleep. It’s a joy listening to what is on her little heart.

3. I firmly believe in sending handwritten thank you notes. This was instilled in me as a child, and Lydia will learn this too. Daniel Tiger (a PBS kids show) has an episode dedicated to “Thank You Day.” Lydia was excited to have her own Thank You Day, where she made cards covered in stickers for relatives who gave her little gifts and trinkets at Easter. I helped write in the cards, of course, but Lydia signed her name. I sent my own notes too, and Lydia volunteered to sign her name on them to show her appreciation as well!

4. Yesterday, we celebrated a sweet little girl’s birthday with an indoor pool party. She was born three years ago today, when Dave’s health was rapidly declining. Her proud daddy visited us in the same hospital after she was born. I’ve enjoyed watching her and her siblings grow over the years, and I am so thankful for her and her family. They have been good to include us in many activities.

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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 Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #3

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 defined as God’s unmerited favor. I often find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Easter egg pic

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

1. This week we drove almost twelve hours to Illinois to visit family for Easter. We left before dawn and within five minutes, I heard, “Are we there yet?!” Lydi was very excited to see everyone! We chatted about the moon and watched a glorious sunrise. We pointed out cows, sheep, and points of interest. Lydi colored pictures, read some books, and napped. Thanks, God, for safe travels.

2. Historically, when we’d visit Illinois, I’d try to see as many people as I can…extended family, old friends, former coworkers, etc.  However, I’d end up exhausted from driving all around the state. I have discovered it works better to organize mini gatherings of people to see several people at once. We did that this trip; it was so refreshing! I am so thankful for my family!

3. I told Lydia that the Easter bunny is “kind-of-like-Santa Claus” (not really real). Don’t worry. She wasn’t phased. As a matter of fact, she quickly directed me, “Well then, YOU can still do something with the Easter eggs.” 🙂 I love my little negotiator!

Then, my brother, my sister-in-law (his wife), and my brother-in-law all helped me hide eggs for a fun egg hunt. I was blessed to have some help in creating fun memories for Lydia. God has given Lydi wonderful aunts and uncles who love her!

4. Tomorrow is Resurrection Sunday. I am encouraged by Romans 5:8 which explains ultimate grace, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” There is nothing we can do to deserve God’s love.

Jesus loved us when we were unlovely and covered in the darkness of sin. He doesn’t love us more when we act well, or love us less on our bad days. He died in our place and triumphed over Death. He rose and conquered the grave…and makes us alive with Him. Thank You, Jesus! We’re more than conquerors too—if we love Jesus and accept His sacrifice on our behalf! (Have you done that yet?)

5. I can easily get caught up in the busyness of every day life in Fargo. Being a single mom takes special effort too. Sometimes, it is best to lay aside my to-do list and rest. One day, in Illinois, ‘Tappa’ (my dad) took us to the local zoo. As we reached an outdoor exhibit, we looked for the animal. I didn’t see anything right away, but Lydia did. “Wow, look at all the little cardinals!”

After this relaxing trip to see our loved ones, and seeing Lydia’s joy in little things, I am reminded that God knows just what I need.

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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, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Personality, Wisdom

Perfect Peace for An Imperfect Puzzle

In my guest room, I have a framed Thomas Kinkade puzzle. It’s so pretty with the calming colors and serene view. It’s one of my favorites, and there’s a funny story behind it, too!

Years ago, when I was pregnant with Lydia, I had a small ‘bucket list’ to complete before she was born. I knew I’d have little time to myself when she came. I thought a one-thousand-piece puzzle would be a big accomplishment. Great idea, right?!

Puzzle (2)

What was I thinking?!

The puzzle was way more difficult than I imagined! Who knew so many tiny pieces could look exactly alike? It took me several months to complete with a few weeks “off” here and there… Finally, Dave gave me an ultimatum:

Finish the puzzle before the baby comes, or we’re going to toss it.
To be fair, the puzzle had been on the dining room table for months! 🙂

Well, wouldn’t you know that after all that time and effort, I could not find the last piece! Aggh!

(Can you find the ‘hole’ from the missing piece in the picture above?)

Well, Dave framed the puzzle for me and put it on the wall anyway. There’s no way I’d toss it after all that hard work! These days, I still love piecing together puzzles. But, with a little one running around, I have more realistic expectations now!

hands picking up puzzle pieces

Life is not perfect…but, it is still beautiful. In some ways, we’re all like puzzle pieces!

My missing puzzle piece reminds me that each one of us has importance to God. The picture is sadly incomplete if pieces are missing. Also, if a few people don’t do their part, we all suffer. Let’s pull together and use our talents and gifts.

God is in charge of the ‘big picture.’ He knows how the puzzle goes together because it is His design. We are His masterpiece and He misses the lost pieces! We may not see how we all fit until later. But, we can trust Him to guide us into place. Let’s participate cheerfully and help those around us.

We all have unique shapes and functions, but each one has intrinsic value. For instance, there are only four corner pieces along the edges, yet, the corner pieces are not more significant than others along the edge. Some pieces are more prominent, but all pieces are needed for a complete picture.

Humility and good attitudes are key to getting along with those in close proximity. Cover personality differences with grace, and connect with others. Don’t be overly concerned about what is going on in the far corners, but do your part to hold your quadrant together. May we lay aside our pride and include others.

Some puzzle pieces have rough edges and won’t feel like a good fit. God may use them elsewhere eventually, but don’t miss the opportunity to extend them grace. Treat them well. Show them God’s love. Maybe they will become a great fit or dear friend after all! We’re all a work in progress, right?

We can’t fix our own imperfections. The truth is we’ll never will be able to get it all right, all the time! But, we don’t have to worry about our lives or the final outcome. God Himself fills the gaps for us and holds all things together (see Colossians 1:17).

puzzle_peace

Yes, God has solved the puzzle of peace in our lives. He has shown us His loves through Jesus (Romans 5:8), who gave His life on the Cross to redeem us and bring us His perfect peace. Because of His resurrection, we can be restored and live a new life of purpose.

God’s grace is more than enough for our lack; He fixes and renews what is broken. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and the big picture. He who began a good work in us will be faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

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God, thank You for Jesus! Thanks for the gift of new life You offer. Help us shine Your light as You piece us together, and let Your peace reign in our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you accepted God’s gift of new life and peace? Do you have any tricks for keeping all the pieces of a puzzle together?!

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #2

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 defined as God’s unmerited favor. I often find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

purple orchid

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

1. One morning, Lydia decided to make her own breakfast. It was a simple meal, but I’ll take it! She managed to find crackers in the pantry and washed a handful of strawberries in her bathroom sink. (I decided just to be grateful for her independence on that one…!) She also surprised me by getting dressed without being told.

2. This week, I met a writing deadline for a large project. I spent hours sitting and writing the last two weeks, and my FitBit friends noticed I haven’t been as active in our competitions. It was sweet of them to check in and make sure nothing was wrong.

3. Regarding my writing project, I got good feedback with very minor tweaks. I am so thankful because even though I’m working diligently at this goal, sometimes it’s slow progress. It feels good to see God blessing the work I am doing.

4. We had two great ice skating experiences this week! On Monday, our neighbors invited us to join them for ice skating at a local hockey arena. We had our skates on for nearly two hours! Then, this morning, we went to another ice rink for a church volunteer appreciation event. Lydia took some breaks, of course, but she kept trying and did well. Overall, she had a good attitude and we had fun…especially when compared to our earliest ice skating experiences. As we left, she said, “Mom, I love ice skating!”

5. On Monday, I also had a blast skating and even borrowed a hockey stick and some pucks… I have always wanted to play ice hockey (casually) and so I got my fix. I felt like a pro and tried something new! 🙂 It felt like God surprised me with a generous gift because it was so much fun!

6. Some other church friends are in India this week for a mission trip to help serve with a local ministry. As I read updates on social media, I can see God’s love for Calcutta. While my friends are only there for a short time, the local ministry has been serving these beautiful people for over 50 years. It’s amazing what can happen when we follow God’s leading. I’m sure Huldah Buntain had no clue all God would do!

Some numbers from the Calcutta Mercy Ministries website:

10,000 people a day, six days a week, are fed at 12 feeding programs around the city. For many, this is their one nutritious meal for the day.

32,000 kids receive education in 102 schools

40,000 people receive medical assistance each year, at no cost to the patient.

To learn more, please read this article.

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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, Wisdom

Do You Feel Lucky?!

Do you feel lucky? (Well, do ya, Punk?!) 😉

Tomorrow is March 17th —Saint Patrick’s Day—so remember to wear your green!

I happen to have a little Irish blood on my dad’s side, but many people celebrate even if they’re not Irish. There are so many fun traditions and folklore!

Here’s a picture of Lydia’s first St. Patrick’s Day several years ago. This was a couple months before Dave got sick. Lydia wasn’t even sitting up yet!

Lydia's first St Patrick's Day

Luck is a term we use casually to wish someone well, in the sense of good fortune or success: “Good luck with your presentation today!” Or, it can be used in the negative sense of ‘bad luck’ usually associated with an accident. Occasionally, you’ll even see a sarcastic eye-roll as in, “Yeah…good luck with that!”

Recently, there was an incident that could’ve had a big impact on my finances. I received a message about a fraudulent charge on my debit card. I was concerned because I had just looked at my account ten minutes prior to the call. I hadn’t noticed anything suspicious, so was a little freaked out. I immediately hung up and notified my bank.

Sure enough, someone in Rhode Island spent over $100 at a gas station with my information! I have never been to Rhode Island, and have no idea how that happened!

Needless to say, I am now waiting for a new debit card because my other account was closed. While it’s somewhat inconvenient, I don’t really mind considering the alternative. I was thankful for my bank and the quick response.

Some people might consider me lucky. “Whew, you’re lucky that worked out!” However, I did not feel lucky—I felt LOVED.
I was grateful for God’s grace that covered the situation. He not only provides for me—He protects me, too. Thank You, Jesus, for looking out for me!

pennies

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to leave my life up to accident, luck, lottery, chance, or coincidence. It is dangerous to have my safety, security, and success hinged on something completely unreliable. So what should we do instead?

TRUST GOD. He is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider. His Name shows His character and faithfulness. God is limitless and is more than able to meet our genuine needs. He is generous to give us what we desire too.

Note: For the most part, God is not into instant gratification. Most often we find we have to wait. But as we wait, God refines our desires to and prepares our hearts to receive His best.

Waiting is not passive. It includes praising God, learning more about Him, and being obedient in the present. Waiting grows hope and cultivates patience (see Psalm 37:7). When our focus is on God, not on the stuff we want, our attitude is right.

OBEY. God rewards obedience—doing what He asks us to do. Sometimes, we get rewarded with a promotion at work, or a something new and shiny…sure. But God is not a genie! Our temporary ‘happiness’ is not His utmost goal. Becoming more like His Son, Jesus, carries eternal significance (see Galatians 5:22-23).

PRAY. God loves it when we come to Him. He cares about every detail in our lives! It may take awhile to see the answer—keep praying. God will come through for you. It’s a privilege to pray for others, too. What a blessing to be part of what God is doing for someone else!

Whether God answers YES, NO, or WAIT, be thankful. He says NO on our behalf, so we can say YES to His best. Trust Him; do what He says to do; and keep praying.

clover

“God’s way is perfect. All the LORD’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection” (Psalm 18:30). That’s better than winning the lottery!

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Father God, thanks for Your protection. You meet our needs and fill our lives with goodness! Help us to walk in obedience as You faithfully lead us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How does it feel to know the ‘odds’ are 100% that God hears and answers your prayers? Is it difficult to trust God with the answer, or do you truly leave it up to Him?

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #1

Up until now, I have only posted once a week. However, there are often weeks where something special happens that I would love to share. But if it doesn’t fit with my basic “theme” for the month, I just skip over it. Yikes! 😮

My friend, Katie, at My Joy In Chaos, recently posted about where she found joy in her week. I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

So, I’ve decided to do the same thing…but with grace. Each weekend, I’ll recap a few places where I found grace in my week. It will be a slightly different format from my Wednesday posts. My goal is to give God glory and not over-edit. Yes, there’s a huge amount of grace in the rough, uncut moments of our daily lives!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also defined as God’s unmerited favor. I often find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

daffodils

So, where did I find the richness of God’s love and favor this week? Where did I see His abundant grace?

1. Lydia’s last gymnastics class was this week. I mentioned to a dear friend it was Parent’s Day at gymnastics, and she asked if she could come too. This friend has been a huge blessing to us over the years, helping watch Lydia and encourage us. I was so thankful she thought ahead, wanted to celebrate Lydia, and kept me company with all the other parents.

Thank You, God for the good friends You have given us!

2. I received God’s grace after Lydia asked me for help learning some letters. I told her to start tracing the ones she knew; I’d be there “when I was finished” with my own project.

Well, after sitting there for awhile (ahem), she repeated her request. A few minutes later, I left my project unfinished to sit with her. I noticed Lydia had such joy and excitement to learn. She even hugged me, saying, “You’re the best mom!”

It was a humbling reminder to remember to put first things first. I won’t always have that time with Lydia, nor does she always think I’m awesome!

3. I saw God’s grace when I took Lydia to drop-in daycare twice in one day for two separate meetings. I actually had to skip another event in lieu of the second meeting. A coworker suggested trying out a second drop-in place—to give me another flexible option. Lydia loved it, and I was thankful for God’s grace during my day.

The next morning, Lydia asked to stay home. I ‘agreed’ since we had been out late the night before. She exclaimed, “I’m glad we don’t have to go anywhere today!”

4.We enjoyed the beautiful weather…Lydia went on a pretend camping trip with her stuffed animals, complete with high heels and tiara! I was glad to be able to see her imagination at work! I also worked on some projects, read some books, and finally got to that dusting I’ve been putting off! 😉 !

5. My mom recently had surgery to replace her right knee. She had the left one done in the fall. I was honored to post updates on her Facebook page. It is amazing to see how her friends have rallied around her to visit, bring meals, encourage her, pray for her, etc. She is an awesome example of grace to me. And, my parents are great examples of how to serve others. It is wonderful to see God’s grace in the healing process. God is so good!

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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

With Appreciation (A Police Tribute)

On Monday morning, I drove with Lydia past an arena no more than three minutes from our house. We go this route nearly every day, but this time, something was unusual at the stop light. Hundreds of police vehicles lined up to honor the first North Dakota police officer killed on duty in 134 years.

Two weeks ago, an officer was wounded during a standoff with a domestic violence suspect. He was 33 years old and had previously served as a combat medic in two deployments. The suspect also died that night.

As our traffic light turned green, we talked about what was happening. “Do you see all those police cars, Lydia? They’re honoring a police officer killed on the job recently.” Being little, she couldn’t understand the impact on our normally quiet community.

But, I teared up with thankfulness and sadness at the sight. It was amazing to see such solidarity in honoring a hero’s life. Thousands of police officers came from several states and Canada. Though, I also grieved because of the tragedy and loss.

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I am so glad for the care shown to the officer’s widow and family. And, I am equally grateful for the acknowledgement of two widows and families suffering.

I pray for strength and peace for both families as they process how the community rallied around them. I pray the public love and support will bring great comfort and healing to these new widows in the coming days.

These tragedies are unifying for several reasons, including the shared loss we feel.

I identify with the officer because of his age. While I did not know him, we could have been classmates. Also, he was married with children; I can relate. I don’t live in the same area as the standoff, but many of my friends do. These days, it just hits home.

Police, firemen, paramedics, EMTs, those in the military, etc. make huge personal sacrifices on a regular basis. Many of these brave men and women start off as volunteers!

Our personal safety is something we often take for granted. But ‘first responders’ are in danger whenever they go to work. They also typically see us at our worst; as such, I’m sure they don’t get thanked enough.

I do not have a police officer in my extended family, but I have close friends who do. I have not personally experienced domestic violence, nor will I pretend to know how that feels. Yet, there are many emotional parallels in times of grief.

While my journey into widowhood has been different, it does help to know you’re not alone. I’m thankful people are pulling together for mutual support and encouragement.

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As we returned home later Monday afternoon, our normal exit off the highway was blocked. Instead, the police were in a 21-mile procession through Fargo and Moorhead, Minnesota. Once again, I pointed them out to Lydia. It felt like history in the making.

We took the next exit and backtracked home. We reached our intersection again and the police vehicles were still passing through. So, we parked at a grocery store to watch across the street. Lots of other people had the same idea.

Several times over the years I’ve been teary-eyed in my car—usually the result of a song on the radio. It doesn’t happen as often these days…but Monday, I was in good company!

These people put their lives at risk for ours. They seek to protect us and I appreciate all they do for us. It is wonderful to see everyone pay respect to someone who deserves it. Thank you for your service, Officer Moszer. Rest in peace.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).

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God, thank You for the brave men and women who are called to protect us. Please bless them as they serve. And please provide special comfort and peace to these families and this community. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Who are the heroes in your life? Have you thanked them lately?