Sunday, December 8, 2013

Dear God,

Packages come in many sizes and shapes.  Their contents can vary in value from very little to very costly. The package I received Friday night was priceless.

A year ago I experienced one of my life's greatest hurts.  It took months to clear my heart, mind, and soul.  I had to really pray.  The key to my healing was running to you, sitting a spell, and relying on your wisdom to help change me.

The gift I received was a one-page, hand-written letter penned by a grandchild.  In the letter she apologized for the hurt I sustained a year ago.  She took responsibility, told me how sorry she was, and then shared her love and appreciation of me as her grandmother.  I was so touched by the love contained in her heart-felt note. I took her in my arms, gave her a big squeeze, kissed her forehead about a dozen times, and told her I loved her too.

Her present to me reminded me of your loving grace.  Sometimes it takes me a long time to recognize my own culpability.  I don't always 'fess up to my participation in a conflict.  I may regard something as an injustice rather than a downright wrongdoing.  However, in your wisdom you reveal the truth to me and then allow me to make things right even after a long period of time.  I am very grateful.

Holy God,
full of love,
warmth, and compassion,
thank you
for the
beautiful gift
I received
Friday night.
Thank you
for my grandchild
and her willingness
to stretch
and grow.
Thank you
for her
generous spirit
and desire
to do
what is right
and good.
Thank you
for faith,
for church,
and for witnesses
who show us
the way
to confession
and forgiveness.

Love, Andrea