I turned to the mirror, hiding the tears that welled up in my eyes and wondered how I was even going to put any make up on now. The urgency of one more story . . . from a boy who knew we were leaving soon and wanting just one more shared moment. It broke my heart.
Did you know that five-year-old boys are the most fun age to read a story to? The questions, the imaginations and conclusions they come to are funny, uplifting and wise beyond their size. I had forgotten how enjoyable it was and now that I know again, I am reminded of what I have missed.
But as I have pondered this, I believe God, in His ultimate wisdom and compassion has given me a measure of comfort. The comfort of the untold story. Maybe He just gave me a glimpse of what His story is really all about. Jesus said, “ And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” ( Matthew 19:29)
Pondering this verse … I hear words of comfort that ring true when I really open my eyes. How else can I explain the peace that passes understanding when I realize that my grandson’s missed story time with me, is a tiny part in allowing many children in the villages of Borneo to hear illustrated Bible stories read to them. My giving up of a daughter to another people, has given me time and opportunity to be a mom to others, through sharing on this blog. And my missing out on day to day family times, has given us multiplied joys when we do get together. I have learned that God is not trying to spoil things for us and that His grace is there to carry us through. In fact, He does more than just carry us through.
So, as my fears and tears have brought me to this place, I hope that in some way this can encourage someone today.
15 comments:
Thanks for sharing Anneliese..it touched my heart. I smile with you amidst the tears..
Very touching and soooooo true! My eyes are misty with you! It is an indescribable joy and comfort to see our children and their families serving the Lord in whatever capacity He has called them. After this comparatively short time of life on our planet, we will spend eternity together in His Presence!
I am misting along with the others.
I don't know what you are experiencing having your children with your grandchildren so far away.
But I love how you seek God in all this and that you have come to a place of contentment and acceptance!
Hugs to you my friend.
My daughter lives in N.Africa. She and her husband lost a baby they were expecting last month and it was hard not to be with her! (My first grandbaby is in Heaven now, and we never got to meet.) But the Lord was with them and provided help and comfort in abundance.
I am so thankful for email and Skype which the early missionaries didn't have when they left home, never expecting to return again. Can you imagine?
Well-said, Anneliese. I rejoice with you that you have felt His comfort and that you see the 'bigger picture'. My heart is warmed by your understanding. I thank you, and I thank your daughter for obeying the call.
I needed this reminder today as I too am missing our Texas belles....but God knows and so we look forward to the next visit. And in the meantime, I am so thankful for Skype so we can talk and see each other.
My eyes are filled with tears. Very touching.....the love of a mother's heart, a grandma's heart. Isn't it wonderful how God uses His word over and over to touch us when and where we need it. Lately I have been living with the thought....is this temperal or eternal? May God continue to work in the lives of the people of Borneo. Kathy (MGCC)
Oh, how touching...I am just in the midst of preparing my 6 year old all about paralympics...There is nothing so valuable as being a grandmother and sharing the different values of life...You have tugged my heart...as I am asking God what would be the best way to open his little heart to seeing others who are different...
God asks different things of us..and it's that we become quiet and obedient. What joy!
I admire your wisdom and maturity of faith! There is much more joy in life when we consider God's higher purpose and try to see things from an eternal perspective.
You are very gracious to share your wonderful children/ grandchildren with others who can benefit from their faith!
Thank you for this post and wise reminder, Anneliese - God has touched my heart through you.
Most touching! May God continue to give you comfort and strength in your place as a mother and grandmother who can not be 'on location' too often...and may you continue to use your experience to encourage others.
Thank you for the reminder that we are not our own, but His and we live according to His plans for us and not our own.....
Very touching reality..
Just started reading your blog. Love Mennonite girls can cook...great recipes....thanks for opening up more of God's story in the lives of His children.
Lovingly,
Sandy in NC
Thanks for the "big picture" perspective. With 4 grands in Ecuador and 2 in Cambodia with their missionary parents (and none nearby) it was a good reminder. One benefit is we get to travel internationally! : ) God bless!
Ruthie
Anneliese. . .my thoughts went straight to you during the message on the weekend. I thought about how God must be so pleased with your attitude in allowing your children to go serve the Lord. I know it can't be easy . .but I admire you so much. . your wisdom is increasing and you are blessing others with it.
The post was so beautiful .. and the picture was just so touching. Thankyou Anneliese.
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