THANKFUL & BLESSED

Okay, so we are officially entering that part of the year where the sentimentality and reminiscing begins for me. I find it very difficult for a day to go by during the fall and the Christmas season that I am not touched by the blessings that God has bestowed upon me or re-living a fond childhood memory.

Jaci and I have felt tired, stressed, overwhelmed and yet very thankful and very blessed by God. His provision for our family, his blessing on our church and ministry. The awesome gift of salvation.

I tend to see things more clearly through the lives of my kids. The joy and the deep love and trust that they have. The love that they are already showing for Jesus. The simple, yet profound childlike faith that I wish I had.

Each moment with our kids is priceless. Each moment with each other is priceless.

Reagan is so affectionate and really loves her family. It melts my heart every time she runs up to me excited to see me and leaps into my arms. Jackson's joy is contagious and it isn't long before everyone that he sees is giggling like a child themselves because of his tremendous joy. A gift that honestly I believe the Lord will use to great effect in his life.

Then there's Noah. It's hard to believe that my little boy is about to turn 8. I looked at some old pictures of him from when he was Jackson's age and it is amazing how similar they look. Yet, God continues to bless him with wisdom beyond his years. Talking about the election today, Noah asked me if Barack Obama is elected if all the people will have to "kill their babies" or only the people who want to. I had to explain to him that abortion is when some mommies and daddies don't want a baby and they choose to kill it.

He cut right to the heart of the matter and asked, "Dad, if they don't want their baby why can't they just give it to a family that does want a baby instead of killing it?" I was blown away by his wisdom.

God is good. During this time of year, it's fun to bask in that goodness and let Him know just how thankful and blessed we are and to share that blessing with others!