Joy in Chores

I know some of you think I am crazy for the excitement of chores and cooking. But I find it’s in those little tasks, I am reminded of the overflow of blessing I received from our King... all so undeserving. I am able to dust a house, yet there are many who have never lived with a roof over their heads. I can cook and feed my family, yet there are people in our own community who have gone days without food. My home is filled with laughter and joy most days, and yet there are some (within my own circle) grief stricken and filled with sorrow. As I approach the Throne, it’s with a thankful, totally undeserving, and overwhelmed heart! For me, those tasks aren’t chores or burdens, but reminders of the love of God! I don’t want to be away from those reminders which help me see His kingdom more clearly.

Tree of Hope

God uses the symbol of the tree throughout the bible, showing the importance of depth in our faith for the trials we will face. The Live Oak has been one of my favorite trees for many years because of its natural beauty. It grows into a beautiful and majestic tree, towering with outstretched branches. Recently when I researched them I found a deeper appreciation of God's creation. Its so symbolic of our walk with Christ and paints a beautiful picture for me...

Live Oaks are evergreen trees; known for their ability to withstand periods of drought and dire conditions. It remains green during winter conditions, when other oaks grow dormant; which is how it derives its name. It grows tall and strong; and at maturity is able offer comfort and shelter to the things surrounding it.

While facing struggles, I pray that my faith and trust in God can reflect that of the Live Oak...

• My roots of faith grow deeply in Christ
• My arms branch out to embrace and love deeply
• My life provides shelter and comfort to those around you
  

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose trust is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted by water,
that sends out its roots by the stream,
and does not fear when heat comes,
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8”

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Because of the anemia and other complications, I was scheduled for a hysterectomy. Through this time, there was overwhelming peace and joy surrounding me. God used this time to show me how much love He has and how very much in control He is....

I learned several things during this time, which totally stirred my heart to worship of my Savior...

• Apparently, I really shouldn’t have kids (maybe “shouldn’t” isn’t the right word, but it is dangerous for the baby). The fact is, that Avery being healthy, full term, etc was a miracle. The fact Grant survived and grew to a healthy size for a 31 weeker was a miracle. The presentation on Grant (breech, premature, etc) is what should have happened for Avery.
  
• If my uterus was still normal size (smaller) with a wall, it’s likely my babies may not have even made it to 31 weeks. It is GOOD for it to be larger since I have such pronounced wall. The OB told me there are a lot of complications that can occur and did not advise more children.
  
• This all took place as I was being formed in MY mother's tummy.... My uterus and renal system developed at the same time and something went astray at that point. It dawned on me... God’s plan for Grant (the thing that drew me closest to Him so far) started as I (ME!!!) was being formed.

God had specifically designed me for this to occur, to carry out His best for me. When you look at this from the surface, it doesn’t seem all that good, but I know it was BEST. The opportunity to be carried through difficult times is BEST. It makes dependency on Him. It made me understand His mercy more.

The truth is, God LOVED us enough to carry us through difficult times and HIS plan protected our children, brought reconciliation within our family, and continues to bring Glory to HIM! My plans would have paled in comparison. As I think through this, it all becomes a bit overwhelming. This is just my story.. and to think with each and every one of us, we have a story and He does have a plan that is His best for us. The verse from Jeremiah, finally has sunk in...

“I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11