Last week i requested a recount... a recount of our blessings. Usually when asked to share our blessings, we rattle off the obvious -- family, friends, God, Jesus, a home, heat, delicious food, etc. The good ones are easy to name, but what about the painful ones?
Around our Thanksgiving table this year i placed a candy cane. No, i didn't mix up the seasons because it wasn't your ordinary candy cane. It was a Sour Patch Kids candy cane. Smacking their lips, the children eagerly shared how the candy is different when i asked. At first it's sour, then sweet... just like some of our blessings.
For me, several sour blessings pop to mind. A dream career shattered by harsh undue abuse, fear and intimation, left me broken and in deep grief. But, in time the sweetness and comfort of an unshakable relationship with Jesus rose and drew me into a sharing ministry of the Salt Shakers. Another bitter blessing is the loss of my Mother. But, it turned into unexpected, sweet joy as i uncovered a new passion, to live daily in a way to honor her. Then there was the scary blessing of a brain tumor. But, how comforting and sweet the blessing of peace in accepting whatever happens it will be okay. My life line now, "I got up today so it's a good day; but the day i don't get up, it's going to be even a better day! Thanks to Jesus!"
Why don't you take a moment to recount your blessings, by including the hard ones. God's promises to us are true, including the one of working all things to the good to those who love Him. As a child of God let's also share with others our sour blessings now turned sweet. It may encourage someone to hold on and trust God's perfect time and way. There is sweetness in store for them too. Keep looking up, there is more to our story; only He knows the ending. But this i know, we can rest assure it will be a sweet one.
we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
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