Thankful For Rain-Today's Picture

Today's picture is one of thanks to God for the rain last night and this morning. See the actual puddle around that tree? It has been a long time since a rain has done that here. It takes about 2 hours of watering our tree row to reach this tree, so usually we end up moving the water hose to give it a drink individually.

Look at the yellow pasture in the background. That is mostly buffalo grass. The thing that is most amazing about that grass to me is that when it gets dry, it goes dormant. It takes a lot to kill it off, but when it gets even a little rain, much less, a great rain; it will green up by the next day. It is wonderful to see.

This rain began yesterday evening/night and I hope it continues today and on. It reminds me of the refreshing from heaven to my soul that started yesterday morning during my devotional time. Where my spirit was starting to show dryness, the Holy Spirit refreshed me. It was like putting expensive lotion on dry, cracked skin. Oh how wonderful.

It reminds me of a song: "Showers of blessing, showers of blessing we need. Mercy drops around us are falling, but for the showers we plead." I want to get soaked in God's Presence. I think that today is a good day for it.

Not Perfect but Loved

This is Maci, Devon, Sierra, & Zach

This picture is from July 2013

Devon, Eli, Zach, Sierra, & Maci

 

A few years ago, before our latest grandson was born, we had family photos taken by Terry Peak. One of my favorite shots of the grandkids is the imperfect one I have posted here. I have used this picture in most of my speaking engagements for an introduction of myself. As you know, grandmas are defined by the people they love.

Even though there are tears on one, scowls on a couple, and indifference on the other; I still see my precious grands. In fact, every time I look at this picture I pause and smile. Most of the pictures I take of them that are posed are all beautiful smiles and I love those, but this one... well...I love it.

It makes me wonder if God looks at me in my imperfections and smiles. Ladies, you know how we struggle to hide all the little spots and blemishes on our face, cover and camouflage excess pounds. Sometimes I just throw up my hands and decide I have done all I can do and give up.

Jesus looks at us and sees his precious child when we give up the 'cover up' and just offer ourselves as we are to Him. There is nothing like the embrace of the Holy Spirit to let you know you are 'accepted in the beloved'. "Beloved"... I am loved!

Next time you see your imperfections, realize this...YOU ARE LOVED by the Lord!