The gentle tap of rain drumming on a windowpane. The sweet pleasant smell of cookies baking in the oven. The wonders of the wind, that you can't see, but you can feel. The cozy feeling of being at home surrounded by people you love, and who love you in return. The beautiful sight of a purple and scarlet sunset, that causes your heart to swell with wonder and awe. The delicious taste of ripe summer fruit. The wonderful fellowship of faithful friends. The quiet enjoyment of a good worn book. The warmth and security of somewhere to call "home". The glorious sound of the ocean waves as they break upon sea-stained boulders. The beauty of a memory that continues to linger in your mind.
All of these things are blessings. When I actually take the time to stop what I am doing to just dwell on all that God has given me, I am truly amazed. It brings happiness to my heart to think on what God has given to me, but it brings humbleness to my heart to think on what God has done for me.
Indeed, the moments when my hands were folded in prayer, when my heart skipped a beat because of the passion it contained for my Savior, when my eyes were pouring forth tears of joy because of the freedom that was mine, when all feelings of guilt and shame were wiped away with one prayer, when my heart grew quiet within me at the stillness of His presence, when my voice was raised in a praise to the rock of my life, when He comforted me with the peace that passes all understanding, when Jesus took me in His arms because I could walk no longer, when all became nothing in my eyes except doing the wonderful will of my loving Savior......yes, those are the moments that I remember. The moments that make my life worth living are the moments where I grew dim and my Savior shined forth. Where my flesh faded, and our wills meshed into one.
I hope that I never forget all that God has given me with the beautiful sunsets, gentle winds, delicious fruit, family, friends, and more....but even more than that I pray desperately that I would not forget my first love. That I would remember the times when He stooped down to meet me even in my brokenness. That my mind would always be tuned in to my creator, and that I would remember the tender moments and memories that make up the beautiful relationship that I have with my loving God.
The first thing that came to mind when I read this was the chorus to Jeremy Camp's song, Beyond Measure.
ReplyDelete"I know that I've been given more than beyond measure. I come alive when I see beyond my fears. I know that I've been given more than earthly treasures. I come alive when I'm broken down and giving you control."
Those words have always touched my heart in such a special way. Having suffered through Christ and knowing what it feels like to be unable to walk any further alone, His power to take our lives and make them better than they've ever been before is so beautifully apparent!
You describe everything so amazingly Emily! Thanks for this post...it really blessed me this morning.
Love you,
--Abigail