Monday, January 25, 2010

Unexpected Blessings

I took my mom to the airport today for her flight home to Oregon. She had been here to watch my two youngest while my eldest and I made a mission trip to India.
Due to medical reasons, our trip was cut short when we reached New Jersey. My daughter and I were forced to return to Texas by train. These totally unforeseen circumstances resulted in many unexpected blessing for my family. First, my daughter and I (though very sad and a bit confused about not getting to go to Sarah's) were given the opportunity to spend some very quiet, one on one time with each other. She is almost fourteen. I realize that she is nearly grown! I'll blink again, and she may be out of the house!!! (ouch) We made many memories together as we traveled home and I will always cherish our "unexpected adventure".
The second blessing was that I spent a week with my mother, who came to watch my other children in our absence. I had not seen her in a year and a half.
This visit was especially wonderful to me because this past year she went through chemotherapy, and so we are keenly aware that each day with her is a very special gift.
I do not always understand God's ways, but I do always trust Him.
"A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."- Proverbs 16:9

Thursday, January 21, 2010

What We Don't See

Let me be a stitch in the eternal fabric being woven by God.

Lord, thank you for letting me see today that you are taking my simple responses and using them for your eternal purposes. Thank you for using me in spite of me! Help me to be as pliable clay in your hands, and a vessel for your use.