...in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Today is the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. After 20 years of service my husband has said, "thank you" and moved on. The Scriptures says, "in everything give thanks" and that's what I will do today.
I thank God for using my husband's current employer to make provision for my family. God provided for us through this family-owned company to put food on our table, clothes on our back and shelter over our heads. Even a long-time dream I had came to fruition as we traveled to Alaska.
We've grown as individuals and as a family. We've matured in the Lord and seen other lives transformed as well. My mother-in-law was taken from this earth quickly without warning; a painful reality that this life is short. I saw Salvation visit my father-in-law Avelino and also my mom one day before the Lord called her home.
Hospital visits to share the Good News resulted in lives changed as I witnessed my uncle's salvation and my other uncle's heart encouraged as the Lord called him. Most recently my cousin Hector surrendered his life to Jesus after yet another bedside outpouring of the Spirit of God. My brother Moses bowing his knee to the Lord behind bars--God is merciful!
Why go back and remember because it testifies of where we are today. I rejoice in all that the Lord has done!
This week brings change. Sunday is my husband's birthday. Monday marks four years from the last day I saw my mom on earth. It's a week with a lot of emotion.
In everything give thanks!
A lot happens in a score (20 years).
My now adult son was only eleven years child. My husband and I have celebrated over three decades of marriage.
We endured the Blizzard of 2015, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and the Blackout of 2003.
Blizzards, hurricanes and blackouts--some are weather related and yet there is another type of these that we experience in our lives.
In everything give thanks!
But this morning when I awoke I was reminded that God is over ALL. With a heart of thanksgiving and gratitude, I say I rejoice today; thank you for my breath this morning. Thank you for the family you have placed me in. Thank you for every encounter and heartache. Thank you for never leaving me. Thank you for the new adventure; we are in your hands--no other place I rather be!
Happy birthday to my husband, Papo!
I am filled with JOY--not joy like the world promotes but that which comes from the LORD--eternal JOY.
God bless you!~Liz
www.lizrod.com
