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Greetings Family, Aug. 10th was granddaughter Giana's 4th birthday. How thankful I am that this little girl was hand-picked by God to be born at this time in history, in this country, to our family. She is, as with all my grandchildren, a very special gift from the loving hand of the Father. Two more grandchildren have come into the family since she was born, and lessons have been gleaned from observing them. Four year olds and infants are able to teach adults a few things, aren't they? Jesus knew this powerful truth, and even talked about it in Matthew chapter 18. On the day the following journal entry was made, I was the student, picking up a lesson from my one-week old grandson.
"My heart is not proud, O Lord. My eyes are not haughty. I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me." Psalm 131:1-2
Watching infant Eli resting peacefully in his mother's arms sets the most beautiful example of this psalm. That little one is 100% content. No wrinkled brow, no fidgeting, just safe and warm, resting in his mothers arms - a picture of peace. Eli is not worried about where his next meal is coming from. He has no concerns about global warming, world politics, or even the weather. He has a full belly, a dry diaper and the security and warmth of his mother. All is well in Eli's world. Eli does not care about what the neighbors think. He's not out looking for the latest, most modern stroller. He's not coveting anyone's rattle. He's not looking down on the baby who hasn't grown as much as he has. He does not care what kind of vehicle his parents drive. This child is content. The most basic of needs being met is enough to make his life happy.
The psalmist is trying to teach me the very same principle I see lived out in Eli's week-old life. When I observe Eli's contentment, I understand that I have the ability to find contentment as well. My contentment need not be based on my environment. My contentment can be based on Who I put my hope in...the Sovereign and compassionate, never-changing, one and only true God. Because of Christ's supreme sacrifice - His death on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins - every one of them, past present and future, I have peace with God. This peace transcends time and circumstance. It is a peace the enemy cannot disturb, although he desperately tries. Thank you Lord, for the lessons you provide each and every day. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear,and a willing and teachable heart. That is what I wanted to say. My prayer is that we will be alert to the learning opportunities set before us each day. Have a blessed week!