Since the beginning of this awful pandemic it has been my fervent prayer… that I would get to visit with my sweet parents before glory. I did… and it was glorious.
A Glorious Visit
With guarded expectations, I spent precious time with both mother and daddy, even though separately. And because of the effort required, (approvals, schedules and time limitations) I couldn’t take one moment for granted.
Remember last weeks article The Wilderness Academy, about the evil rodent that took up residence in Becca’s engine? All grumbling that it caused had to wait. My much anticipated visit was just too important. Which proves the notion that grumbling and gratitude can’t co-exist.
Universal and Rampant
Because the propensity to grumble is both universal and rampant during this frustrating year of 2020, I’ve been thinking more about this natural trade-off. While in Pennsylvania, I witnessed both extremes. I thank Edna and Larry for their powerful illustrations.
Edna
When leaving our outdoor visit with Mother, we walked along a lovely courtyard sidewalk framed by beautiful flowers and meticulous landscaping. We appreciated Foxdale’s effort with an added outdoor covered library and a sidewalk chalk station for departing visitors. A sign encouraged passers-by to leave their mark to brighten up the place.
Ian, grabbed some chalk. “What should I draw,” he asked enthusiastically? He barely started when a resident, Edna (not her name), glared at us. “Are you all going to hang around here making noise?” So stunned, we thought she was kidding. But she continued…”I came out here for some peace and quiet!”
Seeing her scowl, I quickly responded, “oh we are so sorry. This is a bad time. We’ll draw on the sidewalk later. Have a nice day” I said, with an added measure of sweetness to exaggerate our intention.
Poor Edna. Clearly, she was miserable as she tried to find company in her misery.
Larry
Next was our visit with Larry, my Daddy. Our time would be brief and behind plexiglas. He struggled to hear us and his muffled voice was difficult to understand. We did our best to catch him up. He laughed at our jokes even though he probably couldn’t hear them. I could tell that he was struggling, but determined to make the most of this rare and special opportunity.
Finally… with mounting frustration, Daddy suggested we sing. His demeanor shifted and his energy lifted when his voice bellowed… How Great Thou Art. This video will bless you.
Our time flew by and we all departed… happy and content.
Mindful
Looking back on my time in Pennsylvania, I see how the Lord used the many frustrations due to Covid and expensive car repair, to keep me mindful of gratitude, no matter what.
Gratitude Reminders
1. Gratitude is our choice. It’s a decision of the will. To be grateful demands our personal obedience. And often requires the discipline to look beyond our circumstances for expressions of His grace.
2. Gratitude is God’s will. Paul issues the no grumbling decree in
1 Thessalonians 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
3. Gratitude pleases God.
When being grateful makes no earthly sense, we’re forced to take our eyes off of us and our circumstances and redirect our focus to God. This humble sacrificial shift pleases Him and brings us peace.
Psalm 50:14, 50:23, 107:22, 116:17
4. Gratitude impacts others. When we exhibit gratitude in the midst of fear, uncertainty and frustration, we find contentment which confounds the watching world. When grumbling is expected, gratitude is the curve ball that attracts attention. Gratitude keeps us missional as it gives evidence to the work of the Lord in our lives.
Psalm 105:1 Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.
No doubt about it, gratitude makes a difference. When I’m grateful, I gain, others benefit and God is honored.
But….
As I write that conclusion, I feel some shame. Even though I know the truth, sometimes… more times than I care to admit, I would just rather grumble. I look out on the horizon and feel fatigue with my circumstances. I take the bait of the enemy who taunts me…go ahead and whine, complain, be angry and frustrated, carry the grudge, get even, you’ll feel better.
Even though I don’t feel better, I have spectacular news. God loves me anyway. Gods’ grace is not dependent on me getting my grateful heart just right. Isn’t that a relief?
Remember the Israelites?
Even though the Israelites grumbled, the Lord was still abundantly gracious.
Here’s the thing… While God has great expectancy, He knows us and has no expectation. Our future hope is entirely held in His gracious hands. And because of His unshakable kingdom, there is ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS something to be grateful for.
Grumbling is empty and gratitude brings peace. But GRACE prevails over all of it.
For His Glory, Debbie Hucke
Terri says
I have prayed consistently for many years that “when my time comes” I would exhibit Grace, not grumbling. I have been so incredibly blessed through the years that it has been easy to be grateful and gracious. This year has been “my year”, and I have failed miserably. Thank you for this wonderful reminder Debbie that we can choose gratitude or grumbling. And I agree, 100% of the time when I choose gratitude I feel much better. I loved your video, this was my Grandma’s favorite him, and tears were streaming as I listened to your Sweet Daddy. God bless all of you, what a very special daughter you are to make that trip with your children to bless your parents as I’m sure they blessed you.
debhucke says
And that is exactly why there is a grace. We all fail miserably. Rest knowing He loves you anyway. And get right back on the horse. Love you Terri.
Toni Hulce says
How blessed you all were to have gotten to see your parents during this upside down world of today. You Dad sang my favorite hymn also! I love it by Elvis!
Thank you for sharing your latest journey with all of us Debbie. Being able to be grateful during this time is so hard but yet we do our best to thank our Lord for all we do have-Family!
Gratitude for you in my life.
Toni
debhucke says
Thank you Toni. It’s my privilege to be His instrument. Can’t wait to give you a hug.
Karen says
My dad’s favorite hymn too & like Toni, love it sung by Elvis.
I too, had many rocky roads learning these lessons. One lesson that keeps coming back is that there will always be trials & choices. The choice is mine how I will let it affect me. Thank you Holy Spirit for the help!
So happy you were able to see your parents & have this memory.
debhucke says
Thanks Karen. Trials and choices… sums it up.
Anne kole says
Amen, Debbie! Your dad is obviously a man of faith and gratitude, even in his circumstances! His singing is robust and full of his love for the Lord. I’m glad you could make the trip to see your parents and find joy in it! Maybe “Edna” was even lifted up a bit by your smile and cheerful words. I tend to be a complainer unless I deliberately choose to be grateful. Blessings are all around when I look for them. God wants my thanksgiving along with my requests. Thank you for your insight. I am grateful for you!
debhucke says
Thanks Anne. You are such an encourager
Ginger Horner says
Thank you, Debbie for sharing–again. Your messages are always thought provoking and insightful. I can relate to last weeks and this weeks message.
Today I will get to visit my Mom. The set-up: I will be outside, inside a plastic three sided, enclosure. Mom will be inside, in an office–occupied by staff– near a window, that will be open but with a screen on it. We both will be wearing masks. I totally understand the need for protection of Mom. But, she is very hard of hearing and the screen, with her in a wheel chair and not being able to stand close to the window, will be a challenge for her to hear and understand me. I will get as close as I can and talking loud will be tried. I hope it goes ok for her. But, I will see her and know that she is safe. There has been no covid-19 where she lives and we are grateful! God is with us–always–and yes, I feel His grace all the time.
debhucke says
Prayers for your visit Ginger
Paula Koy says
Beautifully written, Debbie! One can learn much from your writings! So glad you were able to visit with your parents. I know how precious that time can be. They were blessed by you as much as you were blessed by them.
Just feeling so grateful right now after reading your words. Thank you. Paula
debhucke says
Grace really can take your breath away. Thx Paula.
Dorma says
Thank you for sharing with all of us the love and specialness of your dad. I wish I knew him. I’m so glad you were able to navigate the circumstances and have visits with your parents.
I hang on to gratitude like a lifeline even though grumbling feels more appropriate sometimes. But gratitude feels better all the time. What I like best about your weekly posts is that they remind me of things that will always feed my spirit.
Ding, dong, the wicked rat is dead! Hooray!
debhucke says
Ding dong indeed! Ha. That made me laugh.
Glenda Demmie says
Dear Debbie, Thank you for doing it again, (Blessing me from head to toe). These last two articles about your trip to PA illustrate how beautifully God can use everything in our lives to bring Glory to Him, when we focus on Gratitude and Grace. Much love,
Glenda
debhucke says
Amen Glenda! Nothing gets wasted. ❤️
Jane Meginnes says
Thank you for sharing your daddy’s singing with us. Loved it so much! Your response to someone was “nothing is wasted.” Your blog has helped me recognize that more fully in my own life. My heart is full of gratitude!
debhucke says
Thank you Jane. Knowing that is a great encouragement.
Emmy Browning says
Loved your message today. Your daddy singing so reminded me of my dad singing. Hard as all of this is I’m still grateful for so many things. Know God is right there with me.
debhucke says
We are blessed to have such wonderful Daddys.
Dawn Johnston says
I seriously think you must be a mind reader, Debbie, because I was just thinking today how much better my days are when I start them off by thanking God for giving us a new and wonderful day full of endless possibilities. My grumbling days weigh me down and cause anxiety and stress. And yes, thank goodness for God’s grace and unconditional love, whether I am grumbly or grateful! Your thoughts were timely and very much appreciated! Xo
debhucke says
Ha! Pleased to hear Dawn. Thank you.
Marilyn Lehning says
Thank you again for sharing! Life lessons are hard for me, they have to be re-learned several times, thankful God does not give up on me! xxxooo.
debhucke says
Im with you Marilyn. It makes grace all that much sweeter.
Annette Rohrbeck says
Glad you were able to visit with your folks. Thanks for sharing Larry singing – we enjoyed hearing him so much! What a great guy! Love, Annette
debhucke says
Great guy indeed. Thanks Mrs. Rohrbeck.
Berta Pitzer says
Another great writing that spoke to my heart. God’s been teaching me the same lesson through my own set of circumstances!! Thanks for letting me see through your eyes and know I’m in good company.
debhucke says
Thank you Berta!
Bob & Bonnie Johnson says
Loved hearing your dad singing. It brought back so many Study Group “song fests” around pianos in the groups’ homes. We have been immeasurably blessed by SG members and “kids,” Greene Hills retreats, NYC trips, AND most of all the love of each and every one in that group of couples. Thinking of you tonight especially, and sending love and “prayers of gratitude for lives well lived.”
debhucke says
Amen! Gratitude indeed for His life and love for me and so many others. Thanks Mrs. Johnson.
Pat Sarajian says
Thanks for sharing, Debbie. This really hits home during these trying times. Thank you. Lord, for your love!
debhucke says
you probably already know… but what AMAZING timing to honor my sweet daddy days before his passing. God was so kind to wait til after our visit.
Wendy says
Thank you for another great message. I too was able to visit my Dad the week before he passed and treasure those memories.
debhucke says
I am grateful