At Home In Heaven and Joy Dare Day 8

Yesterday would have been my Mom's 81st birthday.  I can't believe that Mom was only 73 when she went "Home" to be with Jesus over 8 years ago.  My how time flies!  I thought of my Mom this morning as I had my time with God.  The devotional was talking about music and how our worshipful tunes here on earth are just a rehearsal for when we get into God's presence full-time in Heaven.  At Home there, singing before her King every day.  Lucky her!

The devotional also spoke of how the church is like music - all the different "notes" coming together making beautiful music together.  It said, "Music is a wonderful metaphor for the church because everyone participates by doing what he or she does best.  We all sing or play different notes at different times, but we all perform the same song.  The better we know our parts, and the better we follow the conductor, the more beautiful the music".  Isn't that cool?!

At first I was stumped by today's Joy Dare but then suddenly all became clear as I thought on my interpretations of today's challenge: light that caught you, a reflection that surprised you, a shadow that fell lovely.  Here's how I "saw" these 3 gifts:

A Light That Caught Me

This little light sits in my kitchen, catching my eye every day as I turn it on, illuminating this corner with warm light.  The message on this lamp catches my heart as I think of the verse in 1 Corinthians 13 that reminds me that the greatest of these is LOVE... and that God's love for me is greatest of all!

A Reflection that Surprised Me

Can you see it?  That tiny little hand print on my tv screen that looks like a face?  That little "gift" left over from our family party Dec 30th, reminds me daily of the gift of children.  Little Baby "E" laid his precious little hand there and I haven't yet wanted to erase it from the room.  What a great gift children are in our world... our families... our homes.  You don't have to be a Mom to understand what Jesus said when He called the children to Himself.  He reminds us daily of the value of these important members of our families!

A Shadow That Fell Lovely

These shadowy figures represent the beauty (and gift) of sisterhood!  Spending time with my Sister's family on our recent cruise was a true gift, especially since they live so far away.  Although many miles separate us logistically, through Jesus, we are bonded close together and for that I am forever grateful!

Has THE Light caught you yet?  Has His reflection been surprisingly present in you and through you?  Has the  warm Shadow of the Almighty fallen lovely over you lately?  May His glory shine upon you and His love shine through you today!