"Once we clearly acknowledge the soul, we can learn to hear it's cries. - Dallas Willard, Renovation Of The Heart."

It takes courage to pursue our dreams. It takes time and patience to unearth buried treasure. But I believe with all my heart that we must do both.

12.19.2009

Unexpected Gifts

Then, ten years after our second son was born, we had a daughter. An unexpected gift.

Gifts don't always come wrapped looking like gifts.
A painful and lonely childhood becomes the means to offer comfort and understanding and acceptance to others.
The trial and hardship becomes the vehicle for much needed change and growth.
Living through an illness or tragedy provides opportunities to reach out and help others who are enduring a similar thing.

"Do not assume that he who seeks to comfort you now, lives untroubled among the simple and quiet words that sometimes do you good. His life may also have much sadness and difficulty, that remains far beyond yours. Were it otherwise, he would never have been able to find these words." ~ Ranier Maria Rilke

The Messiah,
The Savior was expected.
But not the way he came.
Not the way he lived.
Not the way he died.
Not the way he saves.
Not the way he loves.

Look for unexpected gifts.

Advent readings for Saturday: Psalm 72:1-8; Genesis 49:2, 8-10; Matthew 1:1-17

Father give us eyes to see the good gifts you give us. Help us to look back and see your hand and work in our lives. For you are ever working for our good. Taking the hard and painful things and working them for our greatest good. Thank you for your love, your grace, your sacrifice, and your continued working in our hearts and lives. May the truth of this cause us to be a more thankful people. Amen.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

I needed to hear this part......

The trial and hardship becomes the vehicle for much needed change and growth.
Living through an illness or tragedy provides opportunities to reach out and help others who are enduring a similar thing.

So true :)

Blessings,
Tammy

Just Be Real said...

Mary, this is so beautiful and poienent! Thank you!

S. Etole said...

In an unexpected journey we are frequently found.

Anonymous said...

Mary -- your thoughts are always such a blessing to read. I believe the Rilke quote is from Letter to a Young Poet--one of my all time favorite books. I haven't picked it up in many years and think I may just read it this Christmas break! Blessings and Hugs!
Melissa

DJ said...

Love this...I need to do some soul-searching regarding some "angst" about the holidays, so this post will start my contemplation quite nicely. I want to see the questions/struggle as growth in my walk with Him, so may God take control, expand His home in my heart, and be glorified.

Say It In Color said...

Oh Mary, your words today were so precious and well received and now this post is so special....the very words I needed to hear. Your blog is a treasure and a gift to us....then your beautiful and vibrant art and then your contagious love for the Lord! Wow....I am so glad I know you! ...still thinking a retreat someday! Love you and thanks so much! We need more of you in this fearful world...

Debbie said...

This post really touches my heart. Thank you for shining so brightly!

Poetic Artist said...

My Dear Mary,
Your words and post always touch our heart where it needs it the most.
Hug,
Katelen

Martha Lever said...

Amen, Mar. You have such a wonderful way of expressing just what we need to hear. oxoxo and love
Martha

Wanda's Wings said...

Something I needed to remember.

Nikki (Sarah) said...

this is such a beautiful post. So beautiful that I felt it. And I love that bear. It looks like it's really looking and seeing. Sarah

CountryDreaming said...

Seems so simple, yet there's deep mystery here. Love can be that way.

Nikki (Sarah) said...

Hi Mary, I just read your comment on my blog about my book. I am really touched by your comment, your words, I never wanted to tell anyone. Sarah

Unknown said...

Thank you Mary : ) You always post something that I need to read it seems. Happy Holidays to you.