Monday, December 22, 2008

The Storm

Once again, I am up in the "wee sma's" thinking of my upcoming week.

As I sit in front of my computer screen, I can hear the wind howling outside and am so grateful that we are safe and snug and warm in our home. There is a soft quiet throughout the house and the knowledge of my guys sleeping soundly in their beds satisfies me.

I have not been feeling great, there is still so much to do and it looks like we are going to have some trouble getting out of Michigan Wednesday morning because of another snow maker, but the Lord has given me a peace in the midst of the storm.

I had made plans to see my Aunt Friday morning, but with the snow storm and Lance's staff person not coming, I had to cancel. When I talked with her yesterday, she sounded so disappointed that we may not be able get together before I leave. That's when I started to think about what is truly important.
  • The gifts will get wrapped even if I have to wrap them down south.
  • We have enough cookies between my sisters and I, that baking another batch or two won't matter.
  • Dusting and vacuuming my house before we leave isn't important, even if my dear mother-in-law will be bringing in our mail.
  • That racing to leave at a certain time isn't as important as visiting an Aunt that I love and a dear friend who had surgery.
  • Calling my Dad and telling him I love him, even though I am still so hurt by his actions.

As I ponder all of this, I began to think about what I can give to Jesus for His birthday?

To make each moment count, to share His love with others as He would share it and to give of myself. I don't need to "do" all these other things, I need to experience peace only He can give and to be...

Besides, what would be better in a house full of laughing children, barking dogs and family all talking at once? An oven full of Chai cookies baked with the cardamom Phil is sending me, that way they will be fresh and eaten immediately, instead of sitting in a cold car that has traveled in snow and rain for 15 hours.

4 comments:

Cindy said...

I love the perspective you bring. And the chai cookies sound like my kind of snack! I'll swap my bonbon recipe for your cookie recipe...is that a deal? lol

We had a storm (snow and ice and now, wind) here too and fortunately did not lose our electricity like so many did.

Life with Linda said...

ahhhh this posting, the perfect addendum to a novel I just read...."The Shack" By Wm Young. Tore my heart out and then gave it back, refreshed and alive. I love you, Gina, Merry Christmas.

Unknown said...

Cindy,

The recipe is from Cooking Light, and we're dying to try it (I'm the one sending the cardamom which was a bit too expensive for an 1/8th of a teaspoon when a brother has two bottles in his cupboard :)

Find it here.

Kim said...

What a great reminder and perspective. I think Jesus will love this birthday gift from you! Thanks for the great post!! :) Merry Christmas!!!