You are currently browsing the tag archive for the 'Family' tag.
I love them that love me
and those that seek me early will find me.
Proverbs 8:17
One hot July morning, I felt the prompting from the Lord to get out of bed. The sun had not risen yet, so at first I rolled over and closed my eyes again. But there it was, that need to get out of bed and wait on the Lord to speak to me.
I stumbled to the living room, picked up my Bible, and plopped on the couch. Reaching up to turn on the light, I fought the urge to curl up with my afghan and go back to sleep. I opened to the chapter I had been reading out of and tried to focus on the lettering.
“Outside, go outside” the quiet voice seemed to be saying. So I stepped out on to the deck and planted myself in a lawn chair.
“OK, God, I’m here, now what?” was my attitude. The mosquitoes began buzzing around my head. I shooed them away. I waited to see just what it was God had to show me that he couldn’t have just shown me in the comfort of my soft bed.
God knows our hearts and hears our grumbling. “Put up with the bugs.” He whispered.
“OK, Lord, I will put up with these little critters annoying me. They are small and You are big. I need a big God right now.”
(Things in our household had been unsteady for the past several weeks. We were facing financial struggles and acts of rebellion by the kids. My strength was waning. I needed a new revelation from God.)
I moved over to sit on the tiny bridge next to our pond. I sat there in the humid morning, hoping today there would be break in the scorching temperatures we’d been having. Through the moonlight, I could see my little goldfish were frolicking around playing chase with each other. I was tempted to dip my feet in the pond for a little refreshing.
Then it started. Ripples in the pond began to appear. “What’s causing that?” I wondered. Plunk! A raindrop hit me in the back of the neck. It hadn’t rained for weeks and we desperately needed it. The fire danger in the surrounding mountains was extreme. I needed the rain too. It seemed to pour over me, washing away concerns and worries.
“Thank you, Lord, for the rain.”
I turned to face the eastern sky. I wanted to see the sunrise. Glorious colors emerged in the sky. I began to worship and praise God for this wonder that happens every morning. ( How is it we don’t appreciate this?)
My neighbors sunflowers were dancing in the wind. Out darted two hummingbirds from behind the fence. My eyes followed them to other side of the garden. Buzzing and chattering at each other, they zoomed around the cannas and liatris like to two little fighter jets. It was entrancing watching them and their routine. My gaze, captivated by these acrobats, turned east. As I watched them whirring back over the fence where they started, my eyes were filled with the most beautiful sunrise I had ever seen. The colors were so intense. The thunderclouds clinging to outside edge of the sky were glowing with purples and reds. The sky itself was a neon sign flashing the words, “Glory to God in the Highest!”
I began to weep. I felt God saying, “Child, why do you struggle so much to do it on your own? Don’t you see I am here? I will give you the refreshing you need. I will supply all you need. Trust me. Lean on me. Follow me.” I knew at that moment that my God, the creator of the universe, had just orchestrated that particular sunrise for me, his child whom He loves and cares for each day.
The songs began flowing from my mouth. What a wonderful God I serve! How could I doubt Him? He continued to speak to my heart words of comfort and peace. I felt everything leave, all the worry, anger, self doubt, fear. It all melted away. In it’s place flooded in hope, love, faith, trust and awe for this so very personal God that was touching me.
I just lingered there, in the rain and the presence of the Lord. A peace set deep within me. I determined to start this day anew. “Lord, help me remember this time I have spent in your presence. Help me, Lord, not to returned to my old ways. Keep me close to you and let your peace flow out of me to others.”
In the south end of the valley lightening flashed across the sky. The low rumble shook my body. I sat very still- another flash and rumble.
“Child, you see how I love you and hold you in my arms. You know my gentleness and caring. But remember I am the still the one who controls the thunder. I choose to touch lightly and speak softly. I have the power to command the lightening. Listen today to this gentle word. I do not want to show my force.”
God mercies are new every morning! If He had given me what I deserved that day, the lightening would have lit upon me! Instead, He chose to refresh me and touch me lightly. His warning, however rang loud and clear in my mind. I see in the Bible and in my own life the measures God has been forced to take with His people. He chooses first the gentle, light touch, but we must be willing to hear and obey.
Consider the lilies how they grow:
they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you
that Solomon is all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Luke 12:27
Over the years, Will has planted well over one hundred species of flowering plants in our yard. Each one is gorgeous in its own right. Mix them together and the fragrance and colors become a spectacular kaleidoscope for the senses.
Standing on our deck the massive explosion of color makes it difficult to distinguish each bud. Once I step off our deck and walk among the blooms, I can begin to appreciate each flower on its own. Little secrets begin to be revealed. I am able to see the intricate patterns of each one.
Each flower has an aroma unique to that particular species. Burying my nose in a Shasta daisy, I am startled by it’s pungent smell. Breathing in the scent of a freesia delivers a more pleasant result to my nose. Still others have no detectable fragrance.
The mammoth hibiscus bloom, measuring ten inches across, lasts only one day. The yarrow on the other hand can last a month, it’s brilliant reds and purples slowly fading to white. Pansies are the only blooms in our landscape hardy enough to withstand the winter’s chill. They can be covered in a blanket of snow, yet emerge vibrant and perky when the cold abates.
Only by examining closely am I able to truly treasure each bloom. The overall view of the garden is grand, but I cannot forget it is made up of thousands of individual blooms.
Family is the same way. Each child, “each bloom” needs to be individually recognized and specially nurtured. The fertilizer I can pour on one generously may cause another one to go into shock. Some flowers love full sun, while others require shade. Each is unique.
Having then differing gifts
according to the grace that is given to us
Romans 12:6a
Every child has it’s own traits and talents that makes him or her an original. By patiently studying and experimenting, we find these special gifts. Pray for your child to hear directly from the Lord about the calling He has put on his or her life. Reaching in, we can encourage them see those strengths and gifts the Lord has given them. Some children recognize easily what their hidden treasures are, while others need support drawing their gifts to light.
Watch your child. Take note of their favorite pastimes. Do they show an interest in art, music, math, science, theater, words or something else? Do they posses the knack to encourage others? Perhaps organization is their strong suite? Maybe your child cries out indignantly against injustice. Whatever their special interest or passion is, you will quickly discover it after a short period of observation.
Next, begin pointing out to them their gifts. Start cheerleading your child to develop and use those gifts for the Lord. Small steps are key steps. Each time they use those gifts it builds strength and confidence. Even if there are flops, continue to encourage them. God has a plan for your child’s future and their God-given gifts will be a large part of that plan.
This section here tells about the initial days that my husband’s girls came to live with us. (At that time they were my husband’s girls–now they are my daughters.)
Blessing and Responsibility
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;
who for the joy that was set before him
endured the cross, despising the shame,
and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endureth such
contradiction of sinners against himself,
lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Hebrews 12:2,3
My pastor is a very wise and discerning man. He always seems to know what concerns are in my heart. He knew I was nervous about bringing new children into our home. He also knew I felt overwhelmed by this task that would take a lifetime. The day Will was to arrive with the girls, Pastor wrapped his arm around my shoulder and encouraged me,
“ You have received an awesome blessing.”
I hadn’t been able to see it from that side. The word ‘responsibility’ loomed so monumental in my mind, I’d forgotten God was blessing me. He was trusting me with three of His most prized possessions. Pastor Wilber didn’t neglect to exhort me on that end of things. He frequently told me directly or through his sermons, “God qualifies whom he calls.” I held onto those words. I knew that God would sustain me.
I began searching God’s Word for direction and encouragement. I found myself relating to Moses and Gideon. Both of them also felt under qualified when the Lord handed them a job to do.
God commanded Moses to make the voyage back to Egypt and lead the Hebrews from captivity. This required Moses to return to the region he had fled from years earlier. God was asking him to be a motivational speaker. Moses lacked confidence, so he begged God to send someone else. Seeing beyond Moses’ speech impediment and into his heart, God encourages him.
The Lord said to him [Moses], “Who gave man his mouth?
Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind?
Is it not I, the Lord?
Now go; I will help you
speak and teach you what to say.”
But Moses said “O Lord, please send someone else to do it.”
Exodus 4:11-13
Gideon lived in a time when Israel was being bullied by the Midianites. The Lord came to Gideon as he was threshing wheat. He explained to Gideon that he could bring rest back to Israel. Gideon, being of the smallest tribe, felt there was no way he could be a warrior. He could not understand how he could possibly lead this battle against the powerful Midians. He repeatedly questioned God.
The Lord turned to him [Gideon] and said,
“ Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand.
Am I not sending you?
“But Lord,” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel?
My clan is the weakest in Mannasseh,
and I am the least in my family.”
Judges 6:14,15
Both men felt God was calling them to a task they knew very little about. I understood the anxiety they expressed in asking the Lord for a reprieve on their assignments. God, however, did not give in. Instead He scolded them by reminding them it was Jehovah, Lord of all creation, who was sending them.
God will stretch you just as far as He can. He will never put you into battle to face it alone. If He is sending you to do a job, and you dedicate your efforts to His glory, you will get it done.
I often think of how Jesus spoke to his disciples, instructing them, “ Let us go over unto the other side of the lake.” (Luke 8:22b) Keep in mind, these were tough men. Some had fished most of their lives. Soon a storm arose and water began pouring into the boat. These well-rehearsed men first responded with the tactics they had depended upon in the past. But when the waters continue to fill the boat, they panicked. In the frenzy, they forgot the words Jesus spoke. (He had told them they were going to the other side.)
Jesus didn’t say, “Let’s get in the boat and go until the water gets rough.” No, He let them know they are going to the other side. Jesus knew the boat would make it. He also knew the storm would come to test the faith of the men in the boat.
Jesus is speaking the same words to you today. He won’t leave you drowning in the middle of raging waters. He is right there bolstering your courage, “We’re going to make it to the other side! This storm will not stop us.”
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,
the evidence of things not yet seen.
Hebrews 11:1
more to follow later
Valentine’s Day
Saturday was Valentine’s Day–or CODE RED day in the floral industry! We prepare as much as we can ahead of time, but still it is usually a madhouse. This year however was a bit less hectic. I suppose the financial crunch we are all feeling has affected people’s pocket money for holidays.
My day was filled with emotion. It started with that huge adrenaline rush we get at major holidays. Then my sis called to deliver the news that our dear friend had passed away. He had been ill, but it was still heartbreaking to hear. Valentine’s day was to be the last day I would be working with one of my co-workers. Her goodbye at the shop was filled with tears. I arrived home somewhat exhausted and sad.
The house was cold and empty. Will had gone hunting for the day and Kendra has driven to Portland to spend the holiday with her fiancée. I cranked up the heat and set about doing my household chores. I was vacuuming when Brandy walked in the door.
“I just came by to wish you a Happy Valentines Day.”
Quite frankly I was tired and didn’t feel much like visiting. I thanked her for coming and gave her a hug. We chatted a few minutes, then her car horn honked.
“Oh, that’s Adam. I’ve gotta go. We have errands. The boys are in the car if you want to go out and see them.”
I followed her out to the car.
MY GRANDBABIES!!!! First I opened the door where Colton was. He is not yet a year old and he is always smiling. I hugged him and kissed his nose. He giggled a bit. As soon as I had opened the door, Alex started calling, “Grandma! Grandma!” He does like attention! Alex is 3 ½ and he has the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen. He also happens to have a “cute” little Mohawk hairdo courtesy of his Aunt Sarah. I quickly ran around the car to his side and gave him hugs and kisses too. He was rambling on about what he was eating and tried to share it with me. I then went to the drivers door and gave my son-in-law, Adam a hug and wished him Happy Valentines Day.
Then something wonderful happened. I stood there in the cold looking at my son-in-law confidently behind the wheel of the car, his wife sitting contently beside him and their two healthy beautiful children all warm and strapped snuggly into their car seats and I began to cry. It hit me how blessed I was. It hit me how good this was. This little family who has had more than their share of struggles were OK. They were more than OK, they were good.
Through my misty eyes, I managed to say, “Thank you for coming by. This was a great valentines present.” I closed the door (Alex still talking away), I wave goodbye and walked in the house.
God had given me a great gift. He knows just what we need and when we need it!!
Later that evening, Handsome Hubby Will came home and we celebrated the day of love in our own wonderful way! (Can’t write anymore on that–like Will said–that would be considered pornography) He’s such a goof!!
Is not God truly wonderful??!!
A Story about JR and Britt
So Britt came home this week for a visit. She has been serving in Bagdad at FOB Rustimyah in the US Army. A few weeks before she was due home, she mentioned she was bringing a friend with her. She didn’t reveal much about her friend. We found out days later it was a male friend. The two of them were going to spend their whole leave together. “Hmmmm…” I thought to myself. Could it be possible that Britt has finally found the one to suit her. Looking back I recall four or five young men who were smitten enough with her to want to marry her. She never really seem to reciprocate the feelings though.
When I asked her about her “friend” over the phone she coyly replied, “ His name is JR and he is a very, very special friend.” So, not really knowing what to think, her dad and I just wait to see.
The night before Britt and JR’s arrival into Medford, she calls her dad to forewarn him that JR will being wanting a man to man talk with him. In our family that is code for ‘going to ask permission to propose.’ So, still….we wait.
At the airport we are all excited to see Britt and curious to see ‘this JR kid’. The plane lands and they deplane. Both are dressed in military clothes. Sharp looking couple.
As Britt steps through the door, I notice JR pulls back as if to allow her the grand entrance to herself. “Nice guy.” I think. We applaud Britt and shower her with hugs and flowers. Sarah and Kendra have signs they are waving. JR understands how important these first few moments of reunion are. He sense the time is right and steps through the doorway himself. Britt introduces him, “Everybody, this is JR.”
“Oh boy.” I thought to myself “this is no kid. This is a grown man!” As I stepped up to hug him and identify myself as Britt’s stepmom, JR immediately said my name. Then he began to look for Sarah and the other members of the family. I couldn’t help obeserving that he had done his homework. This must have been important to him.
After the greetings, gathering luggage and processing the car rental, we all go on our separate ways.
The following day Brittany and JR came over. Britt had offered to cook us one of her great meals. Will and JR seemed somewhat comfortable with each other.
During the course of the evening (before dinner even) the two men stepped outside to talk in private. Being just a woman and not party to the official betrothal request, I can only assume JR humbly asked and Will graciously (or possible not so graciously) approved. Meanwhile Kendra, Britt and I giggled in the kitchen. After the men came back inside, Will ushered Brittany to the back of the house for a private conversation.
This was my opportunity to ask JR some questions about himself and how he felt about Brittany. Doggonit if he didn’t answer them with sincerity and humility. “ I do believe this man is head over heels in love with Brittany.” I thought to myself. But still the lingering question I had was, “How does she feel about him?”
Britt emerged from the conversation with her dad unshaken and smiling. She entered the kitchen and calmly finished dinner. Soon it was time for all of us to eat and we gathered in the kitchen. At that point, JR confidently took Brittany into his arms and did a little dance with her. It was a gentle loving, little slow dance where he whispered in her ear. You could tell he was trying to contain his excitement over what had just taken place. He understood just how monumental this evening was becoming.
Over a fabulous dinner of pork chops and potatoes, the two of them shared stories of Iraq. We laughed and shuddered over some of what they said. At one point in the conversation JR reenacted a recovery operation using pop cans, plates and napkins. His body and voice were both filled with excitement and animation as he told the story. I was quickly beginning to see what Britt saw in this guy!
After dinner, the talk turned to drill sergeants and boot camp pranks. Will dug out his old army book and JR took the time to actually look at each page. (Maybe that was a little too much sucking up…or maybe he really was interested. He had said he hoped to make a career out of the military)
The kids visited a bit then took off.
I liked JR. I liked seeing the two together. But still…something inside me remained unsettled. Perhaps it was because it was somewhat unexpected. Perhaps it was because Britt has had guys falling all over her since she was 14 (she is a beautiful girl). But, no, I think it was simply because he is a man, not a boy. All the girls have dated what I consider boys….boys I could take under my wing and be motherly to. This guy…he was a full grown, confident, goal oriented man. And I believe that scared me.
Over the course of the next day I was able to process all this and of course talk to Will about it. For the very same reasons I had concerns, Will adored the man. He was grateful JR was all grown up and had already achieved his status in the military. My gosh! Will actually respects this guy! To gain respect from Will is difficult. To gain respect from Will when you are dating one of his daughters, is impossible—at least until now. Still something lingered within me. I don’t know what. I just went to prayer on it and I asked two of my sisters to pray. I wanted to be OK about them, but as yet I wasn’t.
So today I went to work. While I was at work Will, Britt and JR went to see beautiful and snowy Crater Lake. I was surprised when I turned the corner to the house to see they had already returned. I walking into the house to find all three of them napping after their jaunt in the high altitude and cold. My first instinct was to record this moment on my camera and I did. My second thought was “OK now I approve.” It was as simple as that. Seeing the two of them asleep on the couch, her head in his lap and his arm over her shoulder in protection. They laid there like that for quite along time. Will woke up. We shared a knowing smile with each other. We both understood together at that moment that Brittany had found her husband.
