When did we start this race? I remember being pregnant for the first time and being stunned and amazed at the life that was growing in my womb. If I had known then what I know now I would have said way back when that we will have lots of kids instead of the timid response of maybe 1 or 2 but definitely no more than 4. To think I actually used to think that way. I didn't know then what beauty God had in store for us if we would but trust Him. We love having so many little faces to kiss and big hearts to nurture. The stretch of our family and responsibility has been nothing short of hard and nothing short of the best days ever. I remember being that young timid girl afraid of the future and living for the moment. Never an ounce of thought about next week, much less next year. How God has has flipped my backwards heart around and shown me a glimpse of the future in light of eternity! It is humbling.
As Jake and I have bore children, disciplined children, and loved children, we marvel at what a beautiful gift it is of the Lord to have the privilege. Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine what fun and what a humbling experience it would be. We have learned so much along the way. Still each day brings struggles and joys of its own. As our bigs (Colby and Jackie) grow older we are learning that each day takes a different face. Parenting is more fun and completely exhausting!
From spanking the bottoms of the littles (Samuel, Silas, Libby and sometimes others) to late night counseling with our bigs we are learning a new definition of what tired is and a more excellent definition of what fun is.
We are loving each day and are thankful. We are so glad that we have friends, you all, who are along for the ride of this God-given life with us. Bless the Lord oh my soul. Let all that is within me bless His hold name!
The news is frightful and the economy worse. Occupy Wall Street, really? How about occupy your home and recreate the messes that have been ignored there. My mind marvels at why our God has us here on this wild earth and then I'm reminded that it is good. Dominate it, rule it, make it glorify the living God.
Happy weekend dear ones.
"Our marriage shall be a yes to God's earth; it shall strengthen our courage to act and accomplish something on the earth." Dietrich Bonhoeffer
A feast of laughter, beauty, and goodness, all crafted into the simple stories of one large Christian family.
4 comments:
Well said, Christie - life is indeed full to the brim with His richest gifts; thanks for the beautiful reminder!
In spite of our arrogance and "doing things our way" God blessed us with a wonderful son who has become a better husband and a faithful and loving dad. God made up for our self-will in granting us eight beautiful- spirit grandchildren. Thank you Jake and Christie and for going beyond your timidity and trusting God. We love you all, Mom
Christie, thanks for writing this. You are an encouragement to me. I pray one day I will have the perspective you have. I sure miss watching you and your brood every week in church!
Such wise words. Love you all!!
Well said Theresa!
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