Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story… – (Psalm 107:2a, NIV)
Everyone the Lord has saved should repeat that word of thanks. – (Psalm 107:2a, ERV)
Let all those redeemed by the Eternal – those rescued from times of deep trouble – join in giving thanks. – (Psalm 107:2, VOICE)
All of us who know God and have a relationship with Him, have stories of His goodness and faithfulness to tell. We all have challenges, trials, and struggles, yet when we know our Savior, we know help and hope, strength and peace, even in times where such things do not make sense. Over the weekend, the twins and I drove a couple hundred miles to go and spend time with my mom for her birthday. She did not know they were coming along, and was beyond blessed and surprised at their presence. We had an incredible weekend together, and watching the joy my mom felt was mirrored in my own heart. After a bad fall, a broken hip and surgery, it was especially good to see mom back to herself and able to get out and able to transfer well to get in and out of the car to go on adventures. Besides doctor visits, it was the first time she had really gotten to get out and shop since surgery and recovery. We were able to dine out and explore the area, and I don’t think the smile left her face the entire time we were together. Even with a minor scare, God provided joy and laughter as we waited for the all clear to be on our way again. Though mom’s mobility is still impacted by the stroke, her hip injury is no longer a factor, and the accounts of His goodness and faithfulness are too numerous to list. For my kids, it was a reminder of the joy found in spending time together, as they have been unable to take enough time off from work to make the long drive to see her for over a year. Having experienced the goodness of our visit, they are now planning on requesting time off and scheduling weekend trips to see Mom. God is good, and the blessing of time together with family and loved ones grant us glimpses of heaven here on earth. May we ever give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and grace, and share of His faithfulness forever.
The goodness of God,
our story to tell;
of kindness and grace,
and how He loves well.
His heart is for us,
with each beat we know;
our lives have purpose,
and in Him we grow.
His love rises up,
to overflowing;
as we recognize,
good is love showing.
Lord, help us to see,
and know in our heart;
all good comes from You,
for love is Your art.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You redeem us and You bring beauty from ashes in our lives. Thank You for the gift of family. Forgive us for the times that we neglect to give You praise for Your goodness and presence, even when our circumstances are not. Teach us to seek You and recognize Your loving presence in all things, for You never leave us nor forsake us. Show us how to love those around us well, so that others may see Your heart for them too. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You for Your goodness and love, and thank You for Your abundant outpouring of grace as we walk out our days. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. – 1 Chronicles 16:34