FAMILY FRIDAY

It was a warm rainy morning as I sat reading a few pages in Catching Fireflies. Although the book is a great read, I found myself reading the same page over more than once. My mind preoccupied on the good news and the sad news I had learned on Thursday afternoon.

I have always believed in the power of prayer. But sometimes wonder why God answers the way He does.  I know that He has a plan for each of us and we shouldn’t question, but sometimes my heart just doesn’t get it.

I had a family member who was struggling. I prayed each morning and each night for this beautiful, loving family to find a new home. Although it took a few months, yesterday it became a reality; what an excellent way to welcome Christmas. Perhaps God searched and searched for just the right home, for the family who tried so hard. Maybe it was part of His plan. A plan that always works. A Christmas plan that would shed light on how much He loves His children.  I am grateful for this family who means a lot to me.

 My cousin Lisa passed. She was the daughter of my first cousin with whom I share a birthday. I am a year older than Jean, her mom.  Lisa was forty-five and died of cancer. She had a loving husband and two sons.  The last time I saw her was at our annual reunion back in August.  She sat and did a craft with the children. As she worked creating, I thought, what a brave and courageous woman.

We had a chance to chat for a few minutes. I was in awe at how optimistic she was in spite of everything she had endured.  I understand that she was hopeful and radiant until she passed.  I am blessed to have known Lisa.

Although her family is grieving for their dear daughter, wife, sister, and mother, I hope they know that she is now free from the pain and the terrible disease she had to endure.

Anytime we lose a loved one is a sad time, but more so at Christmas. May the angels hold hands around this beautiful redhead who was spunky, positive, loved life and her family. I can only imagine, the reunion she is having right now.  But more importantly, I can feel her excitement when she met the reason for the season, Jesus.

When sad things happen in our lives,  filling us with so much pain, remember, we are never alone. He walks with us every day. And He talks to us through friends, family, the wind, the sun, and when we are setting on our front porch. Although He knows what we are thinking every minute of every day, he also knows what we need and when we need it. He feels our pain.  I like to think that when the rains come pouring down, its God crying because of the pain His children are feeling.

 So, on this Family Thursday, I am asking you to pray for your loved ones and friends. And for all those who are ill, and those who are well. Continue to pray for those who are homeless, and for those who are hungry.

He does hear our prayers. He answers in His time.  He celebrates when things are right and holds us tight when we walk through the darkness.  Believe in the power of prayer. It does work.

Dear Readers,

Cherish each member of your family. Spend precious time with them and make memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy and hang on to all the good things that come your way, and let go to those things you can not change.  Be kind to all you meet and help those less fortunate. Hug more, love more, forgive more. During this momentous time of the year try to remember that it’s not the material things that genuinely make us happy, but the love of family and friends.

Always from my heart,

Cynthia