For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.
John 1:16 (NASB)
God is gracious. For the past month or so when I return home, royal wonders greet me, and I can’t help but smile. I didn’t plant these beauties in the grit and gravel, and I’ve done nothing to sustain them. Nevertheless, they continue to thrive.
God is good. He gives me gifts when I don’t deserve them. I’ve been uptight and miserable for months. God brought me through a season of rest four years ago when I had a runner’s mishap, and I didn’t cope well. My injury this summer required surgery. At first, I welcomed the break from the mundane miles, but I had hopes of a speedy recovery. My countenance fell when I didn’t bounce back.
God is loyal. He stayed by my side when I began to unravel. I admit my response wasn’t pretty. I clenched my jaw to retain my thoughts, and then I spewed a few unkind words to several, and my tears smeared black as I raised a fist in frustration and questioned God’s way. I am thankful He endures.
It’s been more than a month since the surgery, and I can’t meander around our property without pain. My left leg has compensated for so long, that both knees are weak and spent. And so, I wrap both legs for support when I watch my grandsons, and I do my best to keep up with them.
One Friday morning, the oldest was tired and ornery, and he had tested my wit, creativity, and stamina. Unexpectedly, he asked to be rocked, and the youngest soon crawled over and fussed to be picked up. My heart melted with love, grace, and compassion as I also tucked him beside my hip and we sang songs. And this is what God has done for His obstinate grown child.
When I broke down the following day, and I had a fit of my own, God reminded me to lean into His love. Come and rest. Abide. I was mortified by my attitude and behavior, and I recalled that others suffer far worse things; I begged for forgiveness. And God didn’t shame or forsake me in my sin. Instead, He gave me grace in the grit and gravel.
Whatever you are facing this day, God’s mercy surrounds you. Trust in His goodness.
Lily Mae
You must be logged in to post a comment.