gently

Tuesday I was surprised by little things throughout the day that reminded me of the goodness of the Lord. His goodness is here, not because of anything I do or don't do, He is just good. And there are moments when I choose to remember it, or I stop to see it and I respond with thankfulness.

Tuesday I was on my way to a playgroup, I had to stop at the store to get a snack. When I was walking out the door, a woman stopped me with these words, "would you like some free roses?" Of course! I turned around and put out my arms to receive two dozen beautiful deep red roses. They were so beautiful. She said they had bloomed to much to sell. I walked out with Levi, grocery bag, roses, and Caleb somewhere in front of me. It was a moment where I remembered the Lord's love and blessing on me. He really does love me!

We have some amazing friends in our lives who willingly and selflessly agree to watch our children. We have been so blessed over and over again. And we know that our boys are in such great care, that it's easier to be away from them when we need to. Tuesday I randomly called some of our friends, a couple who have been a part of our lives for a few years now. I needed someone to watch our boys while Matt and I were at our cell groups and they graciously agreed to take care of them. These friends offered to let me borrow one of their guitars, and when Matt picked up the boys, he brought the guitar back with him. I have attempted to learn guitar on and off now for years, but I have never had my own. So borrowing one is the next best thing!

I often feel unqualified to receive blessings in my life. I tend towards trying to make things happen on my own. So when I see very blatantly that the Lord is blessing me, I have to stop and recognize it, or it will simply slip through my fingers and my heart would remain that much harder. My heart is softening in so many different areas of my life right now, and it's all in response to the goodness...and gentleness of the Lord.