Friday, January 25, 2013

The Faithful Horse



He stands alone. Waiting. Slyly staring at me. For thirty-nine years numerous riders laughed, bounced, and galloped on his sturdy body. 

  When his ear was pulled, he never whinnied or bit. There was no bucking when his tail was yanked. An ear was reattached, and his tail became frayed. 

Adult hands lifted wee ones onto his back and gently rocked his body. More courageous ones leaped high and skidded across the room. Dare devils stood and balanced on his bare back. Make believe became reality.

Strong, capable hands lovingly cut, sanded, assembled, and painted the special rocking horse for a great grandson’s Christmas gift. Over time, those hands slowed and finally stopped. But memories and the horse remain.

The initial rider and his sister left home for new adventures. Cousins and friends took turns, but they also disappeared. But through divorce, remarriage, and several moves, the little horse stayed with me.

For several years, he was relegated to the garage or attic. But with the next generation, his dusty body was cleaned and shined. For eighteen years, five granddaughters have taken turns on his solid, well built body. The years have changed the riders. Only one remains small enough to really enjoy the journey.  Before long, she will also move on to bigger things.

As my grandfather built the little horse in his home shop, I am sure he never imagined the delightful memories that would be made. Only the first few riders even knew him, but his legacy continues. 

What legacies will we leave behind?




Sunday, January 20, 2013

Where is the Sunrise?




Blackness concealed the lake. I settled into my wicker rocker on the patio for my morning devotions. Calmness engulfed me. 

Bits of light peaked between the trees. Beautiful bird melodies woke the wildlife. The tiny soloist led a chorus of lovely refrains from around the lake. 

Light gradually revealed my garden and surrounding woods along the water. Ducks flew in formation across the pale, cloudless sky. I awaited another spectacular sunrise, but no pink painted the sky or lake.  

My disappointment brought insight. Without clouds, there would be no majestic display. 

Clouds have filled my life the last few months. Devastating, disturbing, and unwelcome intrusions caused trials and problems. However, those situations brought unexpected blessings. Scripture and prayers brought comfort and uplifted me. An outpouring of love and compassion gave comfort and encouragement. Strength and peace kept me from sinking. Laughter joined sorrow. Music and books created a retreat. 

Without clouds, sunrises aren’t as glorious. Without pain and problems, blessings aren’t as plentiful. 

When you face stormy seas, I will be there with you with endurance and calm: you will not be engulfed in raging rivers. If it seems like you’re walking through fire with flames licking at your limbs, keep going; you won’t be burned. Because I, the Eternal One, am your God. I am the way of Israel, and I will save you. Isaiah 43:2-3 (The Voice)

Heavenly Father, thank you for walking with me through the trials. Amen

Friday, January 18, 2013

Remembering Uncle Jim




Who would allow a sixteen year old with a brand new license to drive his new Thunderbird? Uncle Jim. I was shocked when he asked if I would like to drive it. What a thrill to cruise around our small town hoping someone saw me in the sporty car.

As my youngest uncle, he did things my other uncles didn’t. Driving a convertible when others had family cars. Keeping a rattlesnake and baby in the same trailer. Raising a boa constrictor and mice to go with it. Letting his young children handle the large boa.

As an adventuresome guy, he loved hunting, fishing, boating, and traveling. A visit to their lake home included boat rides, skiing, fishing, birdwatching, and magnificent fireworks on the Fourth of July. He and Aunt Betty always made guests feel welcome. 

They traveled the world, and I enjoyed hearing about their various trips. We shared stories of similar destinations. During family cruises the last few years, I was able to spend more time with him.

At times, we talked about our mission trips and church experiences. He didn’t like “social clubs” where people didn’t even take their Bibles. 

He cared deeply about his family who were an important part of his life. His sisters will miss their little brother, who was probably a pain at times. His children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends will miss his smile and engaging manner.

As his body refused to let him live as he had for years, it was hard to see the unwelcome transformation. Even though he is gone from those here who love him, he is home with Jesus. His waiting is over.

But we are citizens of heaven, exiles on earth waiting for a Liberator, our Lord Jesus the Annointed, to come and transform these humble, earthly bodies into the form of His glorious body by the same power that brings all things under His control. Philippians 3:20-21 (The Voice)

                                                                Aunt Helen, Marjorie (my mom) and Uncle Jim