All Is Grace

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(inspiration and logo from holy experience)

In ordinary life

we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give,

and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.

~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Ordinary life... life of the daily... Each week I ask God to heal my vision that I may see the things He gives, rather than what I think I lack. And then I wrap those things up as a Sabbath gift to the Giver, expressing thanks with joy, that I am so rich... in things great and small. In things that truly matter. And today I am humbled to see that even during a week when I have blown it big again and again as a sinning saint, I see how much more I receive than give. In the hush of quiet awe of His mercy and grace, looking to see 1000 gifts, and beyond...

308.

Being surprised by truth.

As I walked down the hallway of my children's school,

burdened almost beyond words,

I paused as I passed by these words on the wall

and my tiny match of faith was struck into flame.

309.

Unexpected provision.

"Would you like some bread?" asked a friend.

Apparently a local church's bread distribution

had much left over.

"Sure," I replied,

not expecting to be offered a huge box of gourmet loaves.

Now my freezer is packed full

and I am grateful for this parable God gave

that He has already prepared our provision for our future,

whatever it may be,

when my husband loses his job in seven weeks.

310.

Answered prayer.

Seeing my daughter be bold and physically confident,

yet still being a young lady of grace with a gentle spirit.

(She saved a goal yesterday on defense, too!)

311.

(our family room candle reflects on a window)

Quiet moments.

Being miserably sick has its benefits

as husband and children attend the events of the week

while I stay at home

and come to the quiet.

312.

Creating something just right.

Finding just the right words to design a wall mural,

to adorn a blank wall... some day.

313.

Thrill of soul.

Overhearing my ten year old son

after his soccer game

talk to a girl he just met

about inviting Jesus into her heart

to become a Christian.

314.

Tender gifts.

Seven year old son reuses a Scouts popcorn container

to collect his pennies

to contribute to our family's monthly support

of KLOVE, a Christian radio station he really likes.

Supporting the station was his idea

and he wants to use some of his own money for it,

rather than just letting Mom and Dad take care of it.

To learn more about the 1000 Gift List and the Gratitude Community, click on the links on the menu at the top of the blog. Join us!

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