Contemplation ~

Jerry Dull, a wonderful member of our church, passed away recently. I had the honor of being a part of his memorial service today.

He chased after God. He instilled into his children a character of love that only could have come from our Heavenly Father. He was humble and meek in the shadows of others, holding them up to shine. There was purpose in his ministry. He had seven children, some of them adopted from other countries. The legacy he leaves behind will be felt and shown in the lives of his children, grandchildren and many more generations to come.

A friend of Joy and Jerry's said he was the backing of a picture frame, supporting his wife's ministry and dreams.

My focus lately has been on my dream of becoming a worship artist/singer/songwriter. I definitely want everything I do to be an act of worship and honor to my God and King and Saviour. But what about my loved ones. Where do they fit into that dream? I sit here huddled on the side of my bed while the kids are napping and wonder, am I instilling a legacy of love into them? Am I being obedient in enjoying where God has placed me and what He has given to me to take care of? Am I supporting my husband 100% in his ministry and where God is leading him? Am I finding other places to serve within my neighborhood and community?

I think I am, but I know I could be doing a lot more. There is no reason for me to be discontented here where God has placed me. He has placed me down this journey for a reason and I want to embrace it.

God, I am sorry for looking at life through my eyes and not through Yours. It's not about me. It's about how You can use me to win one more for You. Give me ideas of where I can serve and be used. With my family, help me to love them with my words and actions and build their lives up so that they can shine. Teach me Your ways O God. Thank you for our home, for the abundant water we drink, the variety of food we eat. Thank you for so many choices in clothing and jewelry. I look around at what I have and I can see how blessed and rich we are. Thank you. We don't deserve anything You give us. Help me to serve You at home with the everyday chores, sitting with the kids and reading to them, watching tv with them, playing with them, taking care of their needs. Help me to serve my husband by supporting him, praying for him and his needs and wants, loving him with an unconditional love, and liking him everyday, throughout the day through my words and actions. Help me to be ready to serve whenever and wherever You need me through any acts of service. May You use the gifts and talents that You have given to me for Your glory and not my own. Keep me ever so humble God. Give me abundant opportunities to win people to You. What an honor that is and what fulfillment. Help me to love others more than I love myself and others who are most dear to me. Show me ways I can help love and serve the poor and heavy-hearted. I want to be Your servant everyday, every hour, every minute, every second that You decide to give me. May You be the center of my life.