Oh for the love of…bracelets
First of all…900 lb. gorilla in the room and all…it’s slightly overwhelming, and more than a little disappointing, to think about the past year that has kept me away from The Carr Ride. When we last saw our heroes…and also, Eva…they were in Lebanon, where ministry is incredible and difficult and beautiful…and where gall bladders attack. More on that pesky organ at a later date. But for now, I find myself grieving the loss of another year of writing and dreaming and ministry. Even though it’s fully understandable, I don’t love this new stage of Eva…where the body betrays her, and she must once again adjust to a new normal, excepting additional limitations. It’s not her favorite.
Also…she’s also back to speaking in 3rd person for mental self-preservation. Y’all are just gonna have to deal.
SO let’s think about happy things, shall we?!? I know…I know…BRACELETS!
I recently had the privilege of speaking on a Psalm of praise at a women’s event. Maybe I’ll share more of those thoughts at some point, but for today, I thought I’d share about a simple illustration that has seemed to strike a chord with so many. Bracelets!
The hubs is rolling his eyes. You can’t see him…neither can I…but trust me, it’s happening. Whatever man…it’s solid, and I’m rolling with it.
Bracelets. I’m a fan. But what you may not know is that every single one of the bracelets I wear…and there are many…but every one mean something profound to me…because they remind me of someone or some place precious to me. It’s not just my keen fashion sense on display. :) But whenever possible, I force my friends to get them with me! It’s shocking, but I can be kinda pushy!
Raise of hands…how many of you have been compelled by Eva to purchase matching bracelets so we could remember a certain activity or time spent together? The rest of y’all, we just need to get something on the calendar!
Here’s the point…and I promise there is one…I am prone to forgetfulness. I’m really a “live in the moment” girl. I know this about myself. But because I do treasure my people and our memories and laughs and even heartaches, I need visual reminders of God’s faithfulness in my life. So that when my sweet hubby asks, “Can you ever finally have too many bracelets?” I can confidently say, “Never.”
I hope the things you’re experiencing today will be like that for you…I pray you have moments and truths…and maybe even something visual…that you can wrap around your heart so that you will be constantly reminded of the precious people, places, and words that God uses to keep your mind and affections on Him.
Get yourselves some tokens of remembrance…maybe your thing won’t be bracelets…that’s ok…you can choose something less-awesome. :)
The Holy Spirit keeps bringing to mind that old hymn, Come Thou Fount…I’m sure you know it…but specifically that final section: “Prone to wander, Lord I feel it. Prone to leave the God I love. Here’s my heart, oh take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above.”
Friends, may we never wander and leave the God we love. May the Almighty, unchangeable Father take us and seal us forever to His Kingdom. We might not need remembrances in Heaven, but my heart sure does need them now. Maybe yours does too.