Ribbons, Lace and Moments of Grace by Leigh Ann Thomas

Author:Leigh Ann Thomas
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: SonRise Devotionals
Published: 2017-03-18T16:00:00+00:00

Attitude of Gratitude

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Sarah and I relaxed as we sat in a local sandwich shop, entertaining each other with our mother-of-the-bride escapades. After a good hour of laughter and jokes over shared memories, my friend grew quiet.

“You know, Leigh Ann, so many things in my daughter’s wedding journey mirrored my walk with Christ.”

I nodded in agreement. God had also worked in my life in unique ways throughout my daughters’ wedding journeys. But because we serve a creative, personal God, I was eager to hear Sarah’s unique story and to glean encouragement from her experiences.

Sarah explained how she had certain expectations as she planned a special trip for the bride and her bridesmaids. On day two of the weekend getaway, Sarah realized she was being excluded from most activities and conversations. She felt more like a chauffeur and event planner than a cherished mother of the bride.

“There I was, watching them chatter away, oblivious to my irritation. I was thinking, I paid for lunch, I drove the car, and I made all the arrangements. Don’t these girls realize the sacrifices I’ve made? How can they exclude me? Then regret poured through me. In an instant, I was reminded of my Lord’s sacrifices for me and how I’m so guilty of taking His love for granted.

“These young women were vaguely aware of how I made the weekend possible, but they had no clue about the details. In contrast, I am personally acquainted with Someone who gave His life for me. I’m fully aware of His sacrifice and yet”—Sarah’s eyes filled with tears—“Jesus endured shame and punishment for me, but sometimes I go days without saying, ‘Thank You.’ I exclude Him from life decisions. I take Him for granted.”

God worked in Sarah’s life to draw her closer to Himself and to reflect the glory of His Son. In turn, her shared experience was a reminder for me and for future mothers of the bride.

In his letter to the Colossian church, Paul writes, And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him (Colossians 3:17). In previous verses, Paul teaches about the peace of Christ and the exercise of thankfulness. Then he wraps a huge bow around those teachings by exhorting us to give our all in whatever we do—completely, wholeheartedly, and joyfully.

Sacrifice is part of the journey.

Our daughters may not always show their gratitude. But with God’s strength and wisdom, we can show the forgiveness and patience that our Lord extends to us.

Abba, Father, thank You for Your never-ending forbearance and forgiveness. I’m so ashamed of how I’ve been wrapped up in my own thoughts and self-interest. When irritations crowd in and try to rob me of peace, help me to remember Your great love and sacrifice. Help me to keep a Christ-centered heart in all things. Thank You, Jesus.

Moment of Grace

Read Psalm 100 and reflect on ways to praise God in spite of circumstances.

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