My Ebenezer Stone...

"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us." 1 Samuel 7:12

I have been thinking and thinking about our memories this week, and how important a "feature" that is in the human being. As I prepare for this next school year and all the new experiences we will have, I can't help but get nostalgic. And as I look back at our life since May of 1998...I have to say, I wouldn't change a thing. Mistakes and successes, tears and laughter- how could I take one thing back, because it has all brought us to today?

When I read Samuel's words "Thus far has the LORD helped us", I get goose pimples, because that is so what I can say- "Thus far the LORD has helped me". He never said die, never said quit, and is continually patient and faithful to a stinker like me. How can that not put a smile on my face? Now, I might not have heard him thunder over my head, and throw an entire Philistine army into a panic so I could whoop their butts (1 Samuel 7), but I have certainly heard Him whisper love in my ear, felt Him fight the internal demons of despair and self loathing, and I have watched Him grow and mature the most beautiful people in my life in miraculous ways. Oh, if I could remember these days- "Thus far the LORD has helped us".

Now I need to go for a walk and find my own Ebenezer Stone for the patio- one that I might "set up (stand on end)" to remind me always what the Lord has done.

Remember the good things!

(Jordan was "bored" on Saturday because he couldn't hang with friends. Does he look "bored" to you? Sitting in the sun, reading great books- that's the life!)

What a great weekend! There is something about the sun coming out and the air being warm that brings out smiles and happiness for even the grumpiest people. I love it! We did nothing but spend time together and enjoy the beautiful sunshine. The kids laughed and played with friends, and it was the best reminder of the good things about living in town. In addition, Steve had a job interview on Sunday, and he is pretty certain he got it. The sermon on Sunday was a killer, but I know God is going to use it for great things- so what more could I want in a weekend?

It was interesting that right when I was thinking about how important it is to remember everything- good and bad, Jasmine asked me something that struck my heart. She was feeling really down last Thursday because she does free babysitting for people, and she had been donating hours of her time every week for awhile- and this particular mom rarely compliments her on a job well done, but always brings up any mistakes she might have made. I thought about that comment, thinking it was simply Jazz's pespective, but as I did, I realized she is right. The only time this mom mentions the favor is to say Jazz ate too many of their snacks, or didn't do whatever. I hadn't realized it before- but poor Jasmine was so sad! Crying and feeling like a loser. She said, "I have tried so hard to do my best with the kids (they are extremely difficult kids) and no one remembers all my efforts- just the ONE TIME I mess up. Why is it even worth it??" Oh, mothers- you can feel how that makes your heart break for your child! We talked and talked, and she eventually realized that her motives were pure, and it wasn't her fault if this person doesn't appreciate it. She is doing it for Jesus and He thinks she rocks. But it got me thinking- how often do I do the same thing to this poor kid? Not notice the days and days of perfect work from her, but the minute there's a wet towel left in the bathroom I bring it to her attention! How ridiculous! I want to remember and praise all that she is and does right- now and forever. I have great kids who try really hard, and I don't think I tell them often enough. Maybe forget some of the "bad" is a good thing!

I am going to get my kiddos ready for school- and tell them how fantastic they really are. I hope you do the same, friend! God bless you today!
"Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."
Hebrews 11:6

(I couldn't get a decent picture of these two because they were cracking up so bad- oh well! :)