Mom - Mothers Day 2010

Today I was spreading up our bed and my eyes fell on a quilt and pillow shams that my Mom had painstakingly quilted for me many years ago. She gave until it hurt. She had very few earthly goods, but spiritually she was rich. She poured into our lives, by example, the only thing she knew. It was an unshakable dependence on God. He was her only provider and source. She loved us so much that she sacrificed her own interests to give to us. I apologized one time for being such an ungrateful kid and she said, "I don't remember that". Love truly covers! (My Mom went to be with Jesus in 1995, I miss her.)

Now for me the question is: "What kind of inheritance will I leave my children and grandchildren?" and have I been a blessing to others in my sphere of influence? It won't be material things because we have little. I want them to remember that I truly loved them and believe they had a destiny in God that only they could fill. Most of all, I pray that my love relationship with Jesus showed through anything that I tried to do. It's not religion that takes us there. The test will always be what's in our hearts.

Paul wrote to young Timothy, in 2 Timothy 1:6 and said, "I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois, and in your mother, Eunice, and I am persuaded now lives in you also." It's our legacy to give!

Be Blessed, EDI

Are We Really Thankful?

Paul in Philippians 1:3&7 says,

" I thank God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel ... It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart."

Key thoughts: " I remember you, I thank God for you, I pray (for you) with joy, partnership (meaning relationship), feelings and I have you in my heart." Keep in mind that Paul was jailed under the worst of conditions that would be banned today. Yet he was writing a note of encouragement and thanks.

All of us, if we are totally honest have a need to know that what we say or do for others is acknowledged and received. I recently had to examine my own heart as to what my personal motivation in giving was, when I received no response for the gifts I had given. I complained to the Lord and He spoke to my spirit. How often do I give you good gifts and you don't thank me. I said ,"Yes Lord" and made a determination to be more grateful to Him and others for what they do for me.

Every one of us can have the ministry of encouragement. Please listen to the urges of The Holy Spirit by sending that overdo note of thanks, making a caring phone call or e-mail, a little unexpected gift or a hug and a personal word of encouragement that will lift someone's spirits.

Be Blessed, Edi