Monday, April 21, 2008

my 22nd year

I sit here and think of the last year of my life...the 22nd year of my life. it's over with. in a few hours i will celebrate my 23rd birthday. many thoughts run through my mind but mainly, how have i loved, sought for, and enjoyed my God in the past year? Psalm 39 says,

Show me, O Lord, my life's end
and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting is my life.

You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Each man's life is but a breath.
Man is a mere phantom as
he goes to and fro;
He bustles about, but only in vain;
he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it.
But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.

And now, I'm reminded of the meaning of life for me...to know Christ and be found in Him.

Also, I'm reminded of the godly example I've had in front of me my whole life - my mother. She's the virtuous woman I look up to in so many ways, from the way she's raised her family and continues to nurture her children to the way she extends her hand to those in need and serves expecting nothing in return. She's a strong woman who draws her strength from Christ. And the thing I will never forget is the many nights growing up, when she'd tuck me in and quote scripture to me for the struggle I was going through. She taught me how to meditate on scripture. Last but not least, she practices prayer without ceasing. I love my mother and cherish the role model I have in her.

Then, there's my husband. He's my best friend and I continue to thank God for this gift. Scott is always there for me. Even when he's at work, and I can't sleep, I know how he would tell me to trust God and to meditate on Scripture. He prays with me and has family devotions with me. He makes me feel secure and reminds me of my heavenly Father's love. He exemplifies patience and selflessness to me. I am so blessed to have a husband that inspires me to seek after my God.




6 comments:

Katie said...

Happy Birthday! I'm probably the first in the online world to say it - it's 3 am. :) I hope you have a great birthday. You are a kind, sweet and godly woman.

Your words made me tear up. You are a good writer.

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joan patz said...

Dear Birthday Girl,
I am overwhelmed with emotion as I read your very kind words. I feel undeserving of them and give God all the praise for any good that has come from me. Child raising is never easy, I know I still am experiencing that part as you know, but I have reaped many rewards through my grown children who love the Lord and desire to please him, how much more could a mother desire, truly that is the fruit of my labors. You are a trophy of his love as you exemplify His gentle love and kindness with a heart of honesty and sincerity to bring glory to HIS NAME. God is good in giving you to us and He blessed you with a wonderful husband. HAPPY BIRTHDAY my little Rag A Muffin.
Mother xo

the johnson crew said...

apes, that was beautiful! i probably would be crying, but i am too tired... yes, our mom is amazing... she was here THREE weeks helping me with all my little hoodlums! what a dear... and that was 24 hour duty!

i love you! happy birthday!

janelle and FAM!

kellyH said...

great post! your mom is an amazing mom and now as I see with janelle, continues to be an amazing grandma! happy birthday!

Unknown said...

Happy Birthday!!!
I love reading up on your blog.