mercy

Woman, you are Freed!

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“I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” Luke 13: 5 NASB

     My daughter has teased me on more than one occasion that I need to attend “Dusting Anonymous” classes. However, frequent dusting is the least of my culpabilities!
     The Lord convicted me of a greater problem when I bent to dust my dining room table legs, and I whacked my forehead on the corner edge. I was mad-cleaning, cycling with past hurts; and yet, I lead a class that helps attendees work through loss and teaches how to process similar dirt and chaos. The ugly, camouflage bump that swelled and spread matched my heart wound.   
     Although, I don’t want to dismiss my hurt and feelings, I realized I had an unforgiving spirit!
     Whether we’re sixteen, twenty-six, thirty-six, or sixty, we may strive to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God; yet, we sin and fall short of His will, time and time again.
      Whether we commit a great evil, or we bare a bruise on our forehead from our “swamp sludge,” the Lord calls us to repent; and He intercedes on our behalf with grace and mercy.
     In Luke chapter 13, Jesus tells a parable between a passage on the consequences of sin, a guarded aqueduct and collapsed tower, and a healed woman. A vineyard owner planted a fig tree; and for three years he waited for fruit. He was ready to cut the worthless tree down! But the vineyard keeper stayed his hand—He wanted to give the tree more time. He offered to break up the hard ground and feed the soil.
     Likewise, Jesus doesn’t give up on us. He has utmost patience to make our heart like His.
     The crippled woman was bent double. Her sickness caused by an evil spirit. Satan had bound her for eighteen years; and it wasn’t just a physical condition. Jesus raised eyebrows and protests by healing on the Sabbath. But the woman was set free; she stood straight and gave glory to God.
  Forgiveness is not of us. It is not natural or even possible in our own doing, for it is of God.
  The crippled woman didn’t petition the Lord’s help. Instead, Jesus invited her to come unto Him. Sometimes, God requires faith in order to heal; but in other instances, He invites the sick one to draw near. And His presence is enough. 
      Curiously, only two people questioned me about the bruise on my temple, my daughter and a close friend. How much more do we miss heart wounds? Words often leave a lasting mark, especially when they cut to the core of our identity, while my bruise disappeared in a little over a week. Lysa Terkeurst writes, “Relationships often die not because of conversations that were had, but rather conversations that were needed but never had.” Nevertheless, there are times it isn’t safe to address the infractions.
 Whatever your wound or ailment today, anger, betrayal, rejection, unforgiveness, bitterness, or else, you’re hoping I start a “Dusting Anonymous” class. . . God calls us to repentance with His love, mercy, and compassion. Towers of self-provision and self-protection must fall! Like the vineyard keeper, the Lord intercedes and warns that judgment is coming.
  I’m praising God for His patience and perseverance, for being the attentive Gardener who sees and knows our hurts and hearts. Yet, He expects growth and beauty to bloom. He digs through our dirt, fertilizes the soil, prunes the branches, and waters our dry, hard ground. And He helps us to forgive.
  What keeps you in bondage? Draw near to Jesus. Freedom is found in Him.
 

Be blessed,
 

Lily Mae

  

“Woman, you are freed from your sickness.” Luke 13: 12 NASB

No Regrets!

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But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5: 22, 23 NASB

We will not regret: 

Small acts of kindness

Gathering wildflower bouquets

Gifting garden tulips, daisies, and peonies

Listening long and longingly, to know and understand

Offering a tissue, blanket, or cold glass of water

Sharing a panini sandwich and homemade chips

Meatloaf dinners passed at the door

Gentleness—a soft-spoken word, light touch and embrace 

Windows of compassion 

Reading to a child

Speaking Truth

Saying “I’m sorry”

Bearing another’s burden

Holding a hand and heart

A well-guarded secret

Expressing gratitude

Calls to grandparents

Morning walks

Candlelight dinners (phone turned off)

Sunset waltzes

Rest

Beholding God’s demure beauty

Studying His word 

Forgiving others

Forgiving yourself

Choosing to smile

Singing our song

Saying “I love you”

Humble prayers

Trusting God

A slow exhale

 

Bearing fruit,

Lily Mae

 

He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6: 8 NIV

 

 

 

Whiteout

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     I will give them a heart to know me . . . Jeremiah 24: 7a NASB

     I’d prayed, “Lord, show me your face!” 

     Each morning the gold-spun Sunrise had overcome the inner shadows and formidable hills. Even so, nightfall had its way. Doubt, fear, and anxiety crept in again, and I questioned God’s love, mercy, and faithfulness. Nevertheless, He is present in the feast and famine.

     Sometimes, we have to proclaim Truth until we believe it!

     My vehicle was packed with dinner, chicken spiedies and hearty, split-pea and ham soup. It was a meal for tired bones and weary thoughts. I’d chased after three rambunctious boys all day and was longing for a sunny, mid-June cook-out. I needed physical sustenance and spirit-revival. However, as my car climbed our driveway and spit out gravel, I noticed the flurries that had begun to blanket the fields. But a storm wasn’t in the forecast. So, I shook off my misgivings.

     Then again, feasts don’t always go as we’ve planned or imagined. The wind picked up and skies darkened despite the pretty set table and delicious spread. Also, water, words, and tones spilled, and attitudes and opinions were passed with gingerbread and home-made applesauce. There wasn’t time to savor the dessert and our Sunrise wasn’t well-served. 

     I hadn’t expected such a heavy downfall; the storm had become a powerful whiteout. I couldn’t see more than a tire breadth in front of me. So, I prayed, “Lord, just get me home!” 

     Home. Safe place. Warmth. Belonging. Understanding. No judgement. Messes. Clean-ups. Everyone welcome, lovely and unlovable. Underdressed and overdressed. Every meal is a feast. Coffee turns into dinner and dinner to coffee. We work together. Love. Laughter. Tears. Grace.  

     I was desperate for home, to be known and accepted and loved. 

     I crawled home following vanishing tire tracks. I prayed I wouldn’t fall into a ditch or off the side of a mountain. When I crested one small knoll, the road disappeared; and so, I rolled down my window and faced the bitter cold. I slowly inched forward. But I turned left and got off track. 

     I soon realized I’d made a wrong turn. I was on an unfamiliar plateau and fields bordered me. I sought out a dim light in the distance and came upon a small trailer. I honked my horn until a kind man braved the blizzard, helped me turn around, and redirected me back the way I’d come. While I spoke to the stranger, I reached my husband on my cell and gave him my general location. He prayed, and I was soon on the right road. Besides, the whiteout abruptly ended. 

     Show me your face, Lord. 

     You are the beautiful Sunrise, faithful and merciful to shine upon those who need a rescue. We come to You as the orphan, captive, outcast, and stranger, and we find You in the orphan, captive, outcast, and stranger. Long, windy roads and treacherous conditions fortify our faith. The Lord opens our heart to know Him.

     Our Lord is trustworthy! He blankets us with His unconditional love, mercy, and Truth. We are all desperate for home and in need of grace. No whiteout can hide His presence! We are safe in the fiercest of storms. Our Lord goes before us. Peace is possible if we follow in His footsteps.

Seeking Grace,

Lily Mae

     Because of the tender mercy of our God . . . the Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
Luke 1: 78, 79

Continue in Grace

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As for the fact that God raised Jesus up from the dead, no longer to return to decay,
He has spoken in this way: I will give you the holy and sure blessings of David.
Acts 13: 34, 35 NASB

     The Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas to do the work of God for which He’d called them. They preached the good news and reminded the crowds that God had “put up with His people for forty years in the wilderness.” Not only did the sons and daughters of Israel rebel, they requested judges and then a king; and so, God raised up David, the son of Jesse, a man after His own heart. David was far from perfect, but he repented of his sin and turned back to God.

David is a witness to the nations of God’s mercy. (Isaiah 55: 3,4) Forgiveness is offered for our sins. We can be freed from all things—people pleasing, addictions, sexual brokenness, fear, self-doubt, anger, and bitterness. All things. Our salvation is not gained by works.

Paul and Barnabas challenged the listeners in Acts 13 to “continue in the grace of God!” It’s a message for today. God’s grace is extravagant, kind, charitable, benevolent, and full of goodwill.  It is unmerited mercy and humble servanthood; shoes laced, sleeves rolled back, and gritty grins. We bow, die to ourselves, and choose forgiveness. We let go of our right to control the effort and outcome. Forgiveness is for-giving.

Grace is a gift of unexpected favor, a well-being and well-doing unto others. It’s an attitude. God sees our struggles, our good intentions, mishaps, and failures; but He also knows our loss and underlying hurts and fears. He isn’t rattled. Sin, shame, and guilt separate, but Jesus unites. He widens our circles. Likewise, God delights in us. He bestows joy, gratitude, and acceptance.

     God grants us holy and sure blessings. His love is devoted, loyal, faithful, and steadfast. Pure. His blessings are trustworthy and resolute. May we listen, learn, and live with thankfulness. Since we’ve been given such a lavish gift, we’re called to do the same.

When we’re confused, we don’t know what to do or say, or how to pray, we can “continue in the grace of God.” The Holy Spirit works in us as we endure and seek the benefit of the doubt. We re-frame the lies, negativity, and damage with God’s Truth. And we make room for others. The balcony seat provides the long view. So, we listen with our eyes and respond with our heart. We walk the uncomfortable hallway and say the hard things. Jesus’ resurrection power is for us. His light will break through our differences. We must be unwavering in our call to spread Hope.

God does a work in His people that is indescribable. He frees us of all things. Trust in His holy and sure blessings!

     May the Holy Spirit enable you to continue in God’s grace,

Lily Mae

Incline your ear and come to Me, listen that you may live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, according to the faithful mercies shown to David. Isaiah 55: 3,4 NASB

Love . . . Without Scrutiny

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Looking at him, Jesus felt a love for him and said to him, “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me. Mark 10: 21 NASB

The rich young ruler ran toward Jesus and knelt before Him. He was desperate to know how to inherit eternal life. He’d obeyed the letter of the law, and he’d done much good in his community. However, when the man heard Jesus’ reply, his gaze dropped, and his palms pushed off dust and truth. He struggled to stand as grief overcame him for he was quite wealthy.

And Jesus felt love and compassion for the man.

The frantic noise and dazzling lights of the world also seduce us. We cling to our possessions. Pleasures abound on every street corner; but, the shiny steel, gold glitter, and wild rhythm offer little more than the dust and grime. We hunger for a quick fix, but Jesus sets His Holy standard. Sell your belongings, let go of your lifestyle, and come, follow me.

God sees our struggle to be obedient, to let go and walk with Him, and He is merciful. Although, it is impossible for a camel to be shoved through the eye of a needle, all things are possible with God. Anyone can be saved; no one is too far gone from His outstretched hand. Salvation is the gracious and sovereign work of Jesus. It can’t be bought nor earned by works.  We don’t know who God has chosen and predestined for eternity. Therefore, our duty is to love.

When we see others as God does, we begin to submit to His greatest commandment.

Our purpose is to love without scrutiny and condemnation for we all fall short of God’s glory. It’s not our job to determine whether someone is worthy or not. Whether rich or poor, virgin or harlot, disparaged outcast or prideful, self-righteous one, the gospel message of grace is for all.

God’s love is infinite, and to exemplify His kindness is free; but it leaves a lasting impression. So, be generous.

Simplify. Slow your steps and schedules. Let go of clutter and earthbound treasures. Consider—less is more. Do not hoard for the future what you can give with gladness today. Share regardless of how little you possess. God sees your faithful heart and ready, helpful hands. And you will be blessed with more time to do what matters most.

Follow the one who radiates love.

Imagine if the young ruler had trusted Jesus’ intentions; his outlook may have been different. What miracles and gospel redemption stories could’ve been told?

God also calls us to trust Him. So, don’t settle for the fancy flair, smoky tango, and potent, numbing drink of darkness. It will not satisfy.

A glorious adventure awaits those who are willing to step into the light and to love like Jesus. If you don’t know how or where to begin, consider the way you frame what you see. We cannot bestow mercy, compassion, and loving kindness, if the window of our soul is smeared. Pray for clarity. Pray too for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and conviction so that you might see others with a heart that reflects His own.

May the simple beauty of the lilies of the field embolden us to live the same.

Lily Mae

 

 

 

 

Gifts and Calling

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For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:29 (NASB)

 

God’s gifts and calling are unconditional and irreversible. What God has planted in our hearts; He will see to completion. His mercy is greater than our misgivings, failures, and disobedience. He knows our potential and provides what we lack.

On the dry and thirsty riverbed, God is present. When the whirlwind hits, He is our center. And when unbridled waves rock our boat, He is our calm. He stands watch so we too can sleep. The storm may not relent; however, God’s lamp never goes out. He sees our struggle to submit, wait, trust, and overcome. Look fear in the face. He will lead us.

Tests and trials prepare us for the uncertain tasks ahead. A broken heart is an empty vessel. Welcome bench. Open room. Light luggage. Ready ambassador. Sent advocate. Messenger. There is one who needs a hand to help or hold, or to be seen and understood, and another who will benefit from our story. God can redeem our mire  and muck. So, we trust in His timing.

For it is written on our hand “You belong to the Lord!” And He does not change His mind.

I lose my writer’s edge to keep a dentist appointment, only to learn that the procedure was scheduled for next week. I sigh. I’d driven in the torrential downpour for no reason. I shrug off the wasted time and embrace the rest. There must be a reason for the diversion. The slower pitter-patter on the ride home reminds me that my Lord sings over me with love. Dry bones stir and shift and stretch. God speaks.

I am home. Blessed is she who trusts in her God and is devoted to her husband and family. Ruth depended on God. She was discreet, gracious, and hospitable, and God provided for her. Like the Proverb 31 woman, her speech, appearance, character, and reputation set a standard. God protected Ruth and blessed her faithfulness; the lineage of Jesus began with her son Obed.

Ruth was a woman of excellence.

I also desire to be called worthy, and it starts in my home. I delight in the work that God has given me, the dusty cupboards, crumb-splattered floors, and smudged windows, and the late-night watches and heartfelt prayers. I wipe my grandchildren’s tears, care for their cuts and bumps, and read a second and third book. I sit and listen. Bear hunts, porch picnics, and storytelling remind me that time does not wait for us to catch up. I shrug once more. Laugh. Then I begin to sing while I juggle between play and piles of laundry.

Ordinary days matter.

I longed for simplicity decades ago, and it still tugs my heartstrings—linens hung on a line, strolls through the early meadow dew, a late-night chat with my mother that leaves us in tears, and a card from a stranger spur me on. I’m reminded of one of the last conversations with my father. He challenged me to forgive and to also speak my truth with boldness. He understood the power of our testimonies. His legacy of being the hands and feet of Jesus with mission work, local and abroad, has set a high bar.

However, I trust that God’s purpose planted within me will come to fruition. So, I welcome the lost and lonely, and I encourage the broken, hurt, and timid heart. God beckons me to the river, and I step in. Let the healing rain fall. I’m His beloved.

God will not fail or forsake His own. What He has called you to do; He will see to it!

Let us praise His glorious name,

Lily Mae

Rejoice in the Lord

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Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Philippians 4: 4,5 (NASB)

Winter was long and lonely, the bitter-cold was reason enough to remain by the wood stove. Tucked inside with a good book or craft, it was easy to hide and hug my coffee mug for warmth. But seasons change.

We rejoice in spring. The promise of the blossom kept our eyes watchful and our steps steady as the days lengthened. With eagerness, we began to clear the lawn of fallen twigs and branches. We also cut down dead trees, planted another weeping willow in memory of a loved one, and added tulips to the rock garden. The bursting hues of eternal hope, purity, and friendship intertwined with our fresh efforts and thoughts.

God desires harmony in our relationships—to be unified, like-minded in cares and concerns, and devoted to the cause of spreading the gospel message of Jesus and His redemptive work. Therefore, we set our mind on our risen Savior, and we seek to know His Word, Walk, and Way. We consider how we think and respond to others, and we choose to slow down and live present. Likewise, we purpose to be gentle.

Read Philippians 4:1-5 and you see. Beloved. Dear one. Brother. Brethren. True comrades. Companions. Sisters in Christ. Fellow workers. My joy and my crown. United in Holy Love. Live in harmony. Forbear with one another. Why? Our Lord is near. Likewise, our testimonies are hindered in the community when we fail to get along. So, we embrace new habits, growth, and opportunities to forgive, gather, share, and serve. And we rejoice in our Lord!

Spring has sprung. Spiritual maturity also reveals buds of trust, love, mercy, and gratitude. God desires unity and peace for believers, and He is faithful to complete what He has started. However, when we don’t know how to support others, or how to fight injustice or mistreatment, or where to begin, we fix our gaze on Christ. We follow His example and gift-wrap humility with grace, mercy, and loving-kindness. We take the hit and turn the other cheek, and we wait. We go where it is uncomfortable; we make a call, walk the extra mile, or write and stamp the letter. And we stand firm in our Lord.

Winter might linger longer in the northeast, but there is always the promise of the awakening. I’m thankful for the spring rain that pops the loyal green and opens the forsythia and my heart. My husband breaks through the dirt and plants new seed. Hope. May flowers will also bloom, the hidden lily of the valley under my porch, vibrant tulips and columbine in our rock garden, and blue Bells by the river.

Rejoice in the Lord! Embrace the rain, and let your gentle spirit be known to all men.   Your kindness will leave a lasting impression.

Lily Mae

For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6(NASB)

 

 

 

Pools of Mercy

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This is what the Lord Almighty said: “Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.
Zechariah 7:9-10 NIV 

I meander through the goods
Kitchen utensils, quilts, books, and old-fashioned toys.
A search for child-like wonder,
My gaze rests on a coil tunnel
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

A blanket is folded and patted, too careful
Nervous glances quickly disconnect with mine
Agitated peacock almost collides with my escape.
We side-step dance through the uncomfortable
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

A slinky is thrust like a baton
Familiar eyes question—hesitate, then take.
‘Twas the pattern set long ago
Dreams collide with despair
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

Fling wide the door
Thirsty stems sway and blooms droop
The light changes . . . yellow cautions, “S.L.O.W. the HURRY!”
Angry tires burn the corner. Breaks screech. And horns blare!
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

Winter within threatens to restrict
I fight to feel. Smell. See. Breathe.
I fist my want and hug my hurt
Sip the last of the morn’s dark roast
Frantic, I focus on the ONE beside me.

Gnarled fingers pill his plaid hem
Empty, dark rooms tell their tale
Twins tarry on heaven’s bench
A union of the missing
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

Unbeknownst, the elder gifts courage
I focus on his worry—the blank stare that pulls the knots
Unsteady feet set in heavy platform shoes
Powerless and forgotten outsiders
Breathe. One. Two. Three.

Who will you speak for?
Put a face to the need
Seek the lonely exile, widow, and orphan
Different. Desperate. Hurt. Hungry. Weary.
The closed door signals the good-bye.

I let go and stand . . . step forward.
Mercy’s hand welcomes the distraught ONE
Kind and compassionate and gracious.
He sees through the smeared window and my defense
Stacked bricks, barbed-wire, and pretty-painted pink.

Balcony view to the dirt and gravel, and the shaded sidewalk
Pools of concern offer humble hope and beauty
Picture frames of pastels, fertile pastures, and moonlit nights
And Heaven’s rain echoes the heartfelt cries as a Lily opens
Closes. Breathe. One. Two. Three.

Dare I confront the gap?
River’s edge and broken bridge
Detour signs and cement barricades
Power and prestige – legalism and hate
Bystander’s dismissal, “I am not the victim!”

I recoil. Shrink. Stumble.
I cannot tarry this burden alone
I need a warrior and an advocate.
A tottering fence desires a pillar with pure intentions
Love without conditions, help without condemnation.

A gentle man acknowledges my grief
He questions with interest and quiet deliberation
And I cannot see beyond his magnetic pull
He and his wife’s work beckon me to stay
Our dilly-dally overcomes the tick-tock.

I met a stranger with Jesus’ eyes
And I am undone
Lord, let me be as he. . . as You
Take my fear and doubt, soften my heart
Give me eyes to see the vacant rooms.

I remember and re-member as I break the bread and drink the cup of Easter-tide.

Grace Amnesiacs

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Jesus said, “My grace is sufficient for you,
For my power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

 

 

The ornaments on our Christmas tree were removed with the curious help of my two young grandsons. Small hands played with the Tom and Jerry ornament and the alligator Santa, and the Tweety Bird chime was twisted and tangled and teased. So, when the balloons on the Raggedy Ann were tugged so hard they snapped off, I exhaled with grace. I’d also accidentally broken my husband’s childhood fishing ornament.

A week later, the tree was still up and white lights softened the empty room and my early morning devotional and reverie. My truth set in. I was a bear the night before when I felt dismissed and overlooked, and I took it out on my husband. James 2: 13, 14 reminded me that mercy triumphs over judgment. As I pondered my ugliness from my quiet corner, my better half asked from his coffee nook, “Are you a grace amnesiac?” And he chuckled. He was unaware of what I’d just read.

It wasn’t yet 7 a.m. on a Sunday morning, and my husband’s Lucky Charms and train of thought collided with my almonds and yogurt and stack of books, which included a Greek and Hebrew Key Word Study Bible. So, we can’t take ourselves too serious. We are quite the odd mix-match. I laughed as I joined him and asked about his devotional.

Paul David Tripp cautioned Christians that there are moments when we forget who we are in Christ and we live like grace amnesiacs. Despair prevails and we are ready to quit. The task set before us seems much too grand and burdensome.

We forget our royal heritage and the rhythm of God’s grace. And so, we drift.

We may rebel against God and doubt His plans, or we push others aside and seek attention and accolades. Then we also lash out or retreat in anger when we’re upset, rejected or dismissed. And when we fear the sanctification process, our hands are thrust out in a posture of exclusion as we tighten the reins of rules and regulations. We forget the back street where Grace found us and how prone we are to return to the bondage. Some of us lose days, weeks, and years in our struggle.

Although, the mask of pride and perfection is donned, God sees our hidden deeds and thoughts. We look just like our enemies. And we are so in need of God’s love and mercy.

It’s easy to extend grace to wide-eyed cuteness who can only reach the lower, dangling limbs. However, mercy triumphs over judgement- no matter the size. We must grant grace when it’s difficult and uncomfortable. Remember. Reflect on what our Savior endured on our behalf. We didn’t receive the death sentence that we deserved because Jesus bore it. Consider. The standard of measure we give will be used for us in return.

Lord, help us to remember that we cannot endure and overcome in our own strength. Help us to love the unlovable and to be merciful to those who continue to hurt us.

Renew our hearts to live grace!

Lily Mae

For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy;
Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2: 13 NASB

 

 

 

 

Grace in the Grit and Gravel

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Grit

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