While anxiously waiting for my counseling appointment which I had extended an olive branch for a family member to attend, my hopes were high to come to a peaceful resolution. It was time for the wise counseling of a professional to help repair the severed relationship. Beginning the process of mending torn emotions to a place of strength and deeper healing. Like tiny tears of muscle that pave the way to increased muscle mass, so too our relationship would optimistically be built up. As my upcoming appointment drew near the prayer of King David in Psalms 139 :23-24 came to mind, “Search me thoroughly O God, and know my heart ! Try me and know my thoughts. And see if there is any wicked or hurtful ways in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Longing that my heart would stay on the course of truth joined hand and hand in love.
As the meeting came to a close, regretfully the outcome was not what we had hoped for. Deeply wrestling with discouragement the ride home was a somber one. Feeling an intensified and rather profound sense of loss, 2012 was closing its chapter to more sorrow then I had ever bargained for. My mom’s congestive heart failure, increasing dementia, while also mourning my only other sibling health challenges. And now the golden thread of hope of restoration severed, swaying frayed and raw, making the approaching holidays more poignant with overwhelming sadness and grief.
Upon arriving safely at home I was greeted with a rousing welcome from my loving husband, thoughtful son and two exuberant and lavishly affectionate dogs, Buddy and Buttons. My soul and body instantly sinking into a cozy place called home, their listening ears slowly warming my chilly spirits, thawing out the cold harsh situation. Shortly after our conversation the phone rang, it was Lawrence the husband of my dear friend Lisa from high school calling to plan a surprise for her birthday the following day. His cleverly devised plan was as follows….First, his limo driver would pick us up, then swing over to their house for the birthday girl, surprising her when she got inside with my unannounced presence. After that, it was time to drive to the Chart House for Lawrence’s company party. Photos were taken and hugs exchanged then off my husband and I went for over a two hour ride in the limo….all for free! Her husband’s generosity extending not only to his lovely wife but a gift to Kevin and I as well.
It’s safe to say that it’s been well over twenty six years since I have yearned to ride in a limousine with my husband. The odds never looked good considering for twenty one of those years we have lived only on one income, while I stayed home, homeschooling our two boys, coupon clipping, bargain hunting and pinching pennies tell they squealed. Honesty, that desire got placed so far on the back burner, I forgot it was still a simmering dream. However, God is mindful of our dormant dreams, His word promising to give us the desires of our heart. That same joy of watching my precious friend’s elation on her special day, so too God rejoices over us, watching our astonishment at His glorious celebration on our behalf. This was truly a magical night of sparkling cider toasts, birthday gifts and photos. Then the two of us riding in high style touring Christmas lights, gazing at twinkling stars and city lights from the heights of Rocky Butte. Finishing our glorious night eating at the same Denny’s where we first met after a college career church gathering… sharing french fries like we did thirty years ago. This wondrous adventure fulfilled in a Limo with the License plate, “LUCKY U”
Perhaps you too are struggling with a painful hurt or loss? Do you feel like the chips are down and down on your luck? May I encourage today with the promise of a God who knows your heart and heartache. He is a God that binds up the brokenhearted repairing and restoring them to wholeness. His favor and grace resting on the broken and downtrodden. So, whether you find yourself in a luxury Limo ride or not, the Lord wants to bless you knowing the secret petitions of your heart. This for sure, we serve a mighty God that daily loads His children with benefits. With this profound truth I lift my glass of sparkling cider with a toast in honor of a very highly favored and… LUCKY U
