I Will Always Remember that You Did

            I don’t know where to start. 

            This afternoon some of the ladies who have been in my bible study group for about 4 or 5 years brought in all kinds of housewarming gifts for me—paper towels, Ziploc bags, foil, paring knives, salt and pepper shakers, peanut butter and jelly, and so much more. All the things I will need when I get settled into my house, but then feel too tired and short on cash to make yet another run to Walmart. I will think of you when I make my first PB & J for a Saturday lunch and when I pass the salt to a guest at a Saturday dinner.   

            That was so much more than I could have anticipated anyone would give me.  You guys didn’t have to do that, but I will always remember that you did.  I will always cherish the way you guys give me so much extra TLC. 

            Then tonight at our church skating party, I was given a big stack of cards and gift cards from others in my church family.  I loved reading through their notes—once, then twice.  I am still so blown away by my friends’ generosity and thoughtfulness—shocked and humbled, really.  I feel so humbled to receive their gifts and kind words.  I told my mom, “I can’t tell who all donated to this gift card, but I want to thank them all for it.”

            Mom said, “Well, you better start with thanking the Lord.”

            Yes, ma’am.  I thank the Lord for His gifts, which He has given through you.  You have no idea how timely the gifts are (or maybe you do because you’ve been through this before). But the most valuable gift is all of you and what you add to my life.

            It made me think—sometimes my job feels like a job (like when I’m cleaning up after VBS), but so many times my job feels like a family.  Today was one of those times.  Thank you guys so much.  You didn’t have to do that, but I will always remember that you did.  May God bless you for the way you have cared for me.

             As I read the cards tonight, I took note of the bible verses that my friends wrote down to share with me. I typed them up to include here because I want to see these verses together.  They each came from someone different, but I’m sure the Lord wants to show me some connection among them.  I’ll keep looking at them over the next few days and quoting them in my prayers for my house and this new chapter in my life.  Hope they encourage you today too!

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” (Proverbs 24:3-4)

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example…do not neglect your gift…be diligent…so that everyone may see your progress…persevere…watch…guard what has been entrusted to your care….  Grace be with you.” (1 Timothy 4 & 6 snippets)

“The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make His face shine upon you

and be gracious to you;

The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”

(Numbers 6:24-25)

“But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

“Let the little children come to me.” (Matthew 19:24)

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

“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11)