Life Can Be Messy

As most other families, we had children and grandchildren here during the holidays. We enjoy family so much, setting the time aside to enjoy and laugh together. Some say we have an unusual family, because all the daughters-in-law and son-in-law get along so well with everyone. The three brothers and their sister chatter well into the night. They all just pick and joke and laugh together, setting an example for the little cousins playing together and sharing their new toys. 

Yes, there were toys, shoes, socks and a total disarray in my home, but oh the joy! Once the parents started packing up, the barbie dolls were packed and racetracks put into boxes for the return trip to home, the floors appeared once again. 

We received text messages as they were getting close to home, or had arrived, after a long day of travel with children. We woke up to a quiet house in the morning, no snugglers coming sleepy eyed out of they beds. No chocolate chip muffins were to be made and our cups of coffee were drank with silence around us. 

In the middle of the morning, we received word that a dear cousin had passed away in the night. She has arrived in heaven after her journey here on earth. 

It seemed that life paralleled the week we had just spent with family. I am certain she is in heaven rejoicing with family. 

Heaven will be a great experience, it will be eternal, no one has to leave! But, the experiences we miss here on earth can and should be like appetizers to heaven. 

Some people carry grudges and 'cool' feelings toward others and cannot enjoy being around family. Some actually refuse to go to family affairs, especially if 'in-laws' are going to be there. 

Folks, you are missing life and what blessings God has in store for you. He has put people in your lives to enjoy the benefits each one can bring to the table. It is true we are not going to get along with everyone we meet, we are not going to have the same likes and dislikes, but can't we find something nice to say and begin to figure out why God put them in your life? I am sure God did not do this to make you miserable, but maybe to learn something? Maybe we should ask the Lord to change us instead of them! 

Let's just step back and think about when the next meeting, with a person you don't like to be around, will be. Plan ahead, think positive thoughts and pray for this person. Ask God to allow you to see the good in them. Ask God to tenderized your own heart, so you may be open to hearing His voice in each situation. 

God cares so much for us, He sometimes stretches us out of our comfort zone to help us grow in Him, learning to love and forgive. 

Relax, it is going to be alright if toys are spread out among the guests, it is alright if the glass of milk is spilled. It will only take moments to clean up the physical mess, while it will take a lifetime of cleaning up hurt feelings in the family. 

You will enjoy the times coming up if you begin praying and preparing now. Learn to pray for others as well as yourself. Who knows you may even find a new friend in your very own family! 

Oh yes, get ready! Easter is coming soon!! :) 

1 Timothy 5:8 Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 

1 Cor. 13:7

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things

Blessings,

gs