The Setting:  Me, sitting on the back patio after a day with both my children which I knew from the get go would possibly involve much emotion as I had scheduled a day visit with Ben which usually ends with me driving away filled with Mama guilt and grief due to the fallout of autism.  Miriam, also with us, would be departing at the end of collective time together to start her senior year in college…always a teary summer’s end. (Depending solely on God’s grace for post graduation when she drives off into the sunset for her new job who knows how far away!)

The Reading Material: This passage from Sarah Young’s book Jesus Calling: Seeking Peace in God’s Presence. “When you walk through a day with childlike delight, savoring every blessing, you proclaim your trust in Me, your ever-present Shepard.  The more you focus on my presence with you, the more fully you can enjoy life.  Glorify Me through your pleasure in Me.”

The Scenery:  As I read these words, the air began to burst forth with a choir of bird chatter and singing.  As I cast my glance toward the source, a tall oak tree which sits close to the water’s edge of our lake, bluebirds had begun to fill the limbs. I watched in utter amazement as the tree took on the appearance of a Christmas tree adorned with said birds, which are my favorite! Of course, I ran for my camera, but after a few pictures it was turned off.  God had sent this for my delight in Him and pictures could not capture this moment in time. God invited me to glory in His creation.  One of the Bible names for Jesus is Immanuel which means “God with us.” How close He was to me in that moment. I thanked Him for His grace and blessings on the day with the children.

The Summary:  These words began spilling out of my head which compelled me to share this with all of you.  God is so good!  Ben and I parted with a hug, a kiss, and a smile.  His birthday is next week, and he is anticipating an extended visit at home.  My parting words for Miriam were short and sweet, which defrayed a long tearful good-bye, at least on my part!  I simply said to her, “Go and have a great year. This is a part of God preparing you for the purpose He has for your life.” Holding onto her would be out of step for both of us because we each have our purpose to live out for the Lord. Today I was given an Ephesians 3:20 day, “God can do anything, you know–far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!”  Today “with childlike delight” I savor my blessings, trust in my God and feel, His hand on my life.  Today the “much emotion” I had scripted for the day was joy.  To God Be the Glory!!!