James MacDonald
They came to our house yesterday, Dad leaning on his cane carefully watching over Mom as she slowly negotiated the sidewalk leading to the front porch. She lifted the walker over the thresh-hold and with her sweet smile breathed a sigh of relief.
We settled them into the most comfortable chairs and chatted until the children and grandchildren arrived. The living room was full - of familiar voices all talking at once, of laughter, of love and a sense of deep gratitude. Gratitude for these precious ones who have all know a great deal of pain and suffering over the past few years, but who still find joy in this life.
My Dad looked worn - dialysis takes a toll, especially on a ninety year old body. He has walked through some very dark times, but he has come out the other side with a heart that still whispers "Thank you."
It is a legacy that has been passed down through the generations. I see it in my husband who, though not related to Dad by birth, lives out a patient gratitude in the most difficult of times. It is reflected in the young face of my son who is learning to live with M.S. and finds gratitude in the way God has used his life to minister to others. I see the seeds of it planted in the hearts of my grandchildren.
I am so thankful for the legacy of faith my parents and my husband's parents have given us. It is priceless treasure that has eternal value.
I also thankful for:
- early morning walks, the road lined with long shadows and gentle breezes wrapping around us
- that time of day when the sun is setting, the shadows are lengthening and stillness begins to settle over the land
- worship music ministering to our thirsty souls
- applauding wildly as dozens walk forward to ask Jesus into their hearts
- the kindness of strangers
- the skill and compassion of good doctors
- letters from dear friends
Please join me at Ann's :
Blessings,Linda
picture taken at my parents' home on Mother's Day (I failed to take one yesterday!)
8 comments:
Linda, I'm so glad you had a lovely visit together. Who could ask for more, hey? Love you, e.
just so very beautiful.
Life in all it's imperfect perfection.
Linda-- you get me every single time! Thank you for the wonderful quote, for the glimpse into your home, and for the reminder that in Him, we have everything we need.
Hope you have a blessed week, and happy first day of summer, dear friend!
We went on an evening ride yesterday when those shadows were making the hills so interesting and beautiful - I took lots of pictures that I hope share it a bit. I love early morning and early evening also.
What beautiful qualities both your dad and husband are passing on to future generations. A true legacy!
Blessings,
andrea
"Patient gratitude in the most
difficult of times..."really says
it all. We have many hard days
here in our home but His love
remains constant. When we keep
our eyes on Christ He takes us
from strength to strength, glory
to glory.
Bless you, Linda,
Sandy
What a beautiful family you have, Linda, and how blessed you are to have your parents with you. Learning to live a life of gratitude is something very special they have taught you, and you teach us all in turn. Have a lovely joy-filled start to summer!
wonderful post!
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