When Gratitude Becomes a Sacrifice - Serenity in Suffering
Every mother longs for her graduation day from mother to “grandmother”. Even now as I fondle the tiny knit booties, I remember the exquisite joy upon opening them that Mother’s Day some years ago. My son and his wife struggled for so long with infertility, the announcement of a little one on the way seemed like a dream. Joy sprung from deep gratitude as I cradled the tiny booties. Nine months later, God showed me when gratitude becomes a sacrifice.
gratitude and grace
Perhaps even more exciting than the announcement heralding the promise of a grandchild, was the anticipation of the gender reveal. Enjoying two months of speculation, dreaming and choosing “Team Indigo Evangeline” or “Team Jude Thomas” flew by.
We all chose our team colors for the day, planned the food and gathered for a backyard reveal party among family and friends. Thinking back, the love, fellowship and joy of that day still fills my heart. The moment the balloons escaped the decorated box, tears likewise escaped my eyes; God gifted us Indigo Evangeline.
“I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the Lord.”
when gratitude becomes a sacrifice
My daughter-in-law absolutely glowed throughout her pregnancy. Adoring every moment of her pregnancy, we blessed her with a fairy tale baby shower on a gorgeous autumn afternoon. The vivid memory of pink, sparkles and all things princesses sits quietly in my mind even today.
Weeks turned into months: our family gathered for New Year’s and celebrated the arrival of a new year full of promise for my son and his wife after so many disappointments. Sharing dreams we each harbored for Indie, special gifts for her and plans for the future.
Join me at Living by Design, as I share my story of Indie’s birthday; the day I learned when gratitude becomes a sacrifice, you offer a broken hallelujah finding beauty in the eternal. Find out the most important lesson to remember when gratitude becomes a sacrifice.
