John 4:50"Go," Jesus replied, "your son will live." The man took Jesus at his word and departed.
It is ten days before Christmas. I am finally on my way to Walmart to purchase stocking-stuffers and a few gifts for my son, daughter, son-in-law, and, of course, my precious granddaughter, Virginia Rose.
In our home, we don't go overboard at Christmas. We keep gifts simple, useful, but meaningful. It has become a tradition to give new pajamas to son, Daniel, daughter, Sarah, and son-in-law, John. How thrilled I am to find the perfect sets for each of them!
Stocking odds and ends are a breeze, too. Even for Virginia. I am so excited when I find a CD of Christian songs for children. She loves music and I envision her clapping and dancing to the tunes that her mother will recall from her many memorable summers at church camp.
But, when it comes to finding that one special toy to wrap and place under the tree for my darling girl, I am at a loss.
The shelves groan with a plethora of choices for her age group.
And, so many, too many, resemble toys she already has.
Then, I spot it. An interactive pocketbook with all the accoutrements, sized for a toddler, that one would find in mommy's purse. I take it down from the shelf for a closer inspection.
Cute, but is this the right gift? Will she play with it? I know how much she loves to place things in containers and take them out again . . . how much she loves to explore her diaper bag . . . it talks? Wow! Hmm, looks like batteries ARE included . . .
My expression conveys my inner uncertainty.
"Oh, my little girl just loved this toy!"
I turn to see a pleasant young woman smiling at me.
"Really? Did she? I'm trying to find a gift for my granddaughter and I was thinking about buying this one."
"How old is she?"
"Almost 17 months."
"Perfect! My daughter got this on her second birthday and it was her favorite for years."
An immense relief washes over me.
"Thank you," I say, "I was so confused about what to get. You've been such a help."
"You did look a bit worried. That's why I spoke up. Take my word for it, this is a great gift for your granddaughter."
"Thanks, again, and Merry Christmas!"
"Merry Christmas to you, too!"
I do take her word for it. Happily, I place the toy in my cart.
And, head off to checkout, confident in the knowledge I've found the perfect present for Virginia Rose.
~
Are you taking Jesus at His word?
Will you pray with me?
We pray, Father, for the grace to trust in Jesus' word more and more each day. Let us grow in His love and in His truth so that others may accept our words when we declare Him Lord of all. Amen.
Readings
Psalms 41, 52 or 44
Genesis 14:(1-7) 8-24
Hebrews 8:1-13
John 4:43-54
Hi Martha,
ReplyDeleteAm back to stopping by and reading blogs as I am able to sit for some time ...
Be it Christmas or a birthday or an anniversary, it is always difficult to choose the right gift for a loved one. My daughter likes to read and so I can buy books for her, but for my son and my husband...it is a dilemma.
Nice post.
Hi, Janu!
DeleteIt's great to see you back here and do hope you are recovering beautifully - what a trauma that must have been! :(
Yes, choosing just the right gift can be difficult because we want it to be so special, suited perfectly to the person we are giving it to.
Glad you enjoyed today's post!
Get well, my friend!
Blessings!
I take your word for it because I believe and words have power. Your reflection also reminded me of two passages in the Lord's life ~ one was actually from His mother Mary, (Luke 1,38) "let it be done to me according to your word”.
ReplyDeleteMatthew 8,8 is actually a variation of the verse you chose at the beginning, ' just say the word, and my servant will be healed'.
I pray and I believe in God's Words ~ The Word ~ our life.
Thanks for this post Martha. I'll keep it in my heart this week.
Hi, Melissa!
DeleteI so appreciate your beautiful comments today!
I'm gratified to know this post brought to mind other scriptures which deal with taking God at His word and trusting His will for our lives. The Word is our life, indeed!
Blessings always!
Martha, I love how you incorporate your life stories with a message from God. In our daily hustle and bustle, we forget that God has given us His word on so many things. We just need to acknowledge we have heard Him. We just need to ask Him if we need His help. Thank you for sharing this today :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mary, for the sweet compliment and for stopping by today!
DeleteYes, isn't it amazing how we can get so caught up in life's demands, we sometimes forget how present He really is for us? We do need to listen for His Word and acknowledge Him in all things.
Blessings to you!
There's nothing like confirmation from others is there? And how awesome that just the right person came by at the time you needed them! Great story... AND it illustrates perfectly why I hate shopping for gifts....
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool story - I also have to find the "perfect" gift for my loved ones. And it brings out just how warm and friendly people can be around the holidays, when I think everyone is a little more receptive than normal for the Spirit.
ReplyDeleteI loved this story, Martha. It's amazing how God talks to us in so many different ways, the same timeless message of love and hope, and yet so often we don't take Him at His word and spend time in confusion and pain. ♥
ReplyDelete