Shifting Shadows

As i reflect on the last two weekends, it amazes me how sharp the contrast of feelings is between them.

the first i shared with my family in pure joy: my sister Nora came into town for four days of laughter, shopping, memories, cooking, running, family time, fellowship, and rest. it was a time of reflection on God's grace in the last year as she has made new roots in Arizona. Her visit was a precious gift of God to me, because it reminded me of how faithful God is to work in our lives no matter how unfaithful or sinful we are. as we recounted grace, we encountered new grace. i cannot wait for her and Travis to come over Christmas break for 10 days!

the second i shared with the Smith family in sorrow and mourning: their little boy Chase went home to be with the Lord on Monday afternoon around 4 o'clock, and yesterday my family and i supported Jon and Jenni at his memorial service with our tears, prayers, worship to God, love and hugs. never in my life have i witnessed such a glorious display of faith and trust in God our Savior. Jon and Jenni Smith have become some of my greatest spiritual heroes. and perhaps Chase was not given the gift of living even one full day here on earth, but his death has given many the priceless gift of cherishing the hope of heaven for multiple days. (go to http://the-smith-family.blogspot.com/ for their blog)

Praise God, for His steadfast character endures forever!

James 1: 17 says, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Whether our days are marked by changing joys or sorrows, let us draw near to the One who never has changed, is not changing, and never will change.