My 10,000 Reasons…July 25, 2013 (Day 3)
Today was the day my family has been waiting for, praying
for, and concerned about for several years now. My dad was diagnosed with an
aortic abdominal aneurism 2- 3 years ago. Doctors told us there was nothing
they could do because it was so small at the time. But, every few months they
looked at it, checked it, watched it, waiting for it to rear it’s ugly head.
Well, a few months ago, doctors decided that the aneurism was at a size that my
dad had the “perfect window” of opportunity. This thorn in his side (or
abdomen), so to speak, had given him a chance to remove it without harm. Now,
those of us who are familiar with this sort of condition realize that very few
people get to catch one of those before it is fatal. Well, today was the day I
got to celebrate the removal of that “thorn” that I thought of everyday…my
prayers were weird. Do you pray for healing or for it to grow so doctors can
take it out? Well, both happened today. The aneurism is gone and my dad is
healed at the hand of God, wonderful physicians, and a nursing staff that save
lives everyday. I now, get to celebrate years with my dad…laughing and
celebrating.
I’m challenged! Isn’t that what we are called to do…chosen
to do? Give encouragement to those who have thorns in the mind, the heart, the
soul? How many times do we run into people that need a “removal of the thorn”
that comes in a word of encouragement, a warm smile, a kind word. I am grateful
that my dad will be around for years to come. And, I also want to be the avenue
for people to be around and live in joy for years to come. God, use me to bring
a smile or encouragement to someone in need. I want to be an extension of God’s
love and grace to others. God help me not to be so consumed with my own thorns
that I neglect to be a light in the darkness of some people’s lives. It could
be a co-worker, a friend, a stranger, a waitress, a student, a passerby. What I
am realizing is…it’s worth it to look for ways to be joy in someone’s day! I am
certainly thankful when I experience joy from someone who doesn’t even know
that their words or actions are perfectly seasoned with God’s grace for me in
the moment. God, help me be more! More love and more kindness. It’s His
kindness that draws us near. His character is kindness, joy, peace, love,
compassion, self-control, faithfulness, gentleness, patience. Thank you Lord
for dealing with me from Your character and not my short-comings and please
help me be that for others.
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the
Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly
with your God.” Micah 6:8
My 27 reasons today…
1.
A safe travel to Mississippi to be with my mom
and dad today, after his surgery.
2.
For tomorrow, when he will come home and I can
serve him.
3.
For children that will be joyful in a hospital
room celebrating their Dawbi!
4.
For a successful surgery that will add years to
my dad’s life.
5.
For a mom, that is gracious and kind, even when
frightened.
6.
For God’s voice in my heart when I feel
hopeless.
7.
For God’s word, that is a light to my path and
lamp to my feet.
8.
For my subway sandwich….when I was starving.
9.
For my Darla, Tosha, Christina, Mishelle, and
Lori, who texted me all day and brought encouragement.
10. For
my Spark, that kept me alert when I was tired.
11. For
my children’s laughter!
12. For
the phone call from The Mister, that brought a smile to my face.
13. For
Christina, she shows me perseverance everyday.
14. For
the joy of the Lord that is my strength.
15. For
challenges in life that make us stronger at the end of the day.
16. For
rest stops along the way to Mississippi to stretch my legs and enjoy the
beautiful sun.
17. For
worship, that keeps my heart joyful.
18. For
2 scoops of ice cream that my daughter enjoyed today.
19. For
nurses, that made my dad comfortable.
20. For
a restful night’s sleep for my mom and dad.
21. For
my sweet Belle, my tiny dog that barks like a Doberman to show her love for us.
22. For
my mom’s vegetable soup…it smells amazing.
23. For
my husband’s job that allows me to be home with my kiddos.
24. For
my son’s non-stop talking.
25. For
comfy clothes.
26. That
God is faithful even when I am not!
27. For my Dad! He will be
around, making us laugh, beating us in poker, and being a light to me and my
family for years to come! Thanks be to God!
So, I learned...set backs happen. We are human and some days we have to put out those little fires that rear their little heads. But, it doesn't mean failure. You can stay the course and be victorious and live to move another day!!
