Sunday, March 20, 2011

faith looks up

I've had a lot of time recently to think about the family unit. What a precious gift God has given us.  Whether your family is super close-knit or not, it always seems that in times of great need, the love in a family pulled a little tighter, a little warmer. 

Blake's grandpa had a stroke almost a week ago.  It has been an up-and-down rollercoaster for everyone since.  But, let me tell you, the strength this family has is indescribable.  As we made the drive to Denver last Tuesday, we didn't know what was in store for us when we got there.  Thankfully, Dale has made great progress.  Seeing his family stay positive and encouraging throughout this process has been so inspiring.  The hardest part about these kinds of things is seeing loved ones in a state you're not used to seeing them.  I think it's most difficult for those surrounding them to see that person so changed.  His grandma's continuing faith in our Lord brought me to tears.  She acknowledged God's many blessings, and that He's always brought them through, taken care of them, and she has faith He'll do the same with this.  

Today I am thankful for warm weather, being able to look ahead at Spring Break, freedom of religion, and the Tobeys.

Each time we face our fear, we gain strength, courage, and confidence in the doing.