“But not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has given it to us.” Romans 5:3-5
When my sisters are I were children we enjoyed tons of time outside since we lived in the middle of 5 acres. Hide and go seek, tag and jumping on the trampoline were just a few of the things we enjoyed with each other and our friends. One of my favorite things to do was running around at night collecting lightning bugs and putting them in a jar. On occasion, when the bug would be still I would put it on my fourth ring finger pretending it was a diamond ring. Some of my happiest times were chasing these fiery insects. I am sure you have also had the experience of collecting lightning bugs.
I was thinking about our childhood this morning with Mother’s Day around the corner and I couldn’t help but think about the legacy of Mother. She has watched each of her childhood family members trade their earthly life for their heavenly one. She has had to watch a child go through excruciating circumstances, only to lay her at Jesus’ feet. She has had to say an earthly goodbye to my dad earlier than her heart ever thought. But the way she has lived out her life has been one of the most inspirational things for me and my sisters to watch. She has always shown the grace to embrace whatever God’s will for her life has been. She has endured much but has testified about God more. Her character has been proven the same in the painful times as in the joyful ones. She continues to chase down lightning bugs and collect the lovelies in life.
But God never allows our jars to be too full to fill them with more collectibles...more lovelies… more blessings. What she collected was a wonderful godly man in her 80’s, who has given her fresh hope and love as they walk towards the sunset of their lives hand and hand. It was a beautiful lightning bug that has continued to illuminate and shine. Through her life she continues to teach us to look for the moments that light up, and never stop collecting those lovely blessings that God sends our way.
Whatever you have experienced or are presently experiencing, please don’t stop collecting lightning bugs, those bright and lovely things that God puts in front of you. Reach towards them, embrace them gently and collect them in your heart. Trust in Him and the lovelies that He has for your future.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with the hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
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