No clever "stuff" this week--we're too stuffed with turkey anyway! It's time to evaluate the real treasures of life--and it's not a 20-pound turkey, a closet full of designer clothes, and a Victorian mansion on the hilltop. You see, I faced raw reality last Tuesday--and it wasn't funny, pretty, or clever. It was pain--agony--death--in a lovely Christian family, just two days before Thanksgiving!
Brad is dead. He was an 18-year-old freshman at Evangel University, where my husband is a chemistry professor. Brad's dad is chairman of the Bible Department. A tragic one-car accident instantly took his life, and this gifted young man--sax player, chess player, French enthusiast, and Christian--was gone. Young people, friends, and teachers filled the sanctuary to mourn and grieve with parents and loved ones. I did not know this young man, yet grief overwhelmed me. I drove home to my two teen sons, hugged them, and said, "I'm glad you're alive!"
I don't know why a young life was taken. Unanswered questions plague our minds. I know he was a promising young man, a "treasure"--preparing for adulthood--just as my sons soon will be, Lord willing, in a few short years, at the same college. Jason, just turned 13, an amazing, amateur magician and cross between a strong-willed child and your favorite mischief maker! Called to the ministry, and still "quite unsanctified!" Joey, almost 16, taking driver's ed, an accomplished sax player, Teen Bible Quiz champion, Speech and Debate trophy winner. Great, gifted kids--and I'm a proud mom!
BUT you would have to know these two lively sons--wonderful, crazy rascals, and challenges to a mother's patience, wisdom, and sanity--to fully understand the emotional impact of that moment. Do I love them? Yes! Do they frustrate me? Yes! But that day, for a few moments, God gave me a special appreciation for the treasures He has given me. I realized they are not mine to own, but they are God's priceless gifts, lent to me for as long as He wills; they are my TREASURES--I am blessed, unbelievably blessed--messy rooms and all!
We are all unique--our paths lead in differing directions, and yet, we each have our "treasure list"--while you think of yours, may I give you my top three? Hang around the Well, and watch me unwrap God's treasures in MY life!
A Helping Word...or Two!
The Treasure of Family!
I thank God for the treasure of my original family--Mom, Dad, and younger sister; extended family members; and then, my own beautiful family--a loving husband, and two sons--both very prayed for, and very wanted!
"God setteth the solitary in families...(Psalm 68:6 KJV)."
"For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him. Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord...(1 Samuel 1:27,28 KJV)."
