It was my first Valentine’s day without my dear husband. I actually did ok during the day, but got a couple of cards from girlfriends in the mail, and another friend had left me a wonderful little devotional tied in a plastic bag, hanging on the iron gate. I saw it there when I came home from work and wondered what on earth it could be. It is just what I need at this time and the way the book is written is just as if Jesus were talking to you directly. The name of the book is ‘Jesus Calling – Enjoying Peace in His Presence’ by Sarah Young. Reading the bit for yesterday and reading the cards from my friends brought on the tears.
I had made myself a lovely dinner, just as I always did for us for holidays, raised my glass of wine in a toast to my dear husband and to Jesus the author and finisher of my faith. I am so thankful for His many blessings, for the many ways he shows me that he cares deeply for me.
This is a whole new way of living life. It’s rough at times, normal others, but always there is the ‘missing’ of someone who had a huge impact on my life. He is the one from whom I learned what love is all about. He added so much sparkle to my life. I miss sharing so many things with him. There was a joy in living that has slipped away, and has to be restored bit by bit and only Jesus can do that. I am learning to trust in him more, loving him more, being strengthened by him.
I will close with these verses from Isaiah 41:10 & 13.
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Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed;
for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee;
yea, I will help thee;
yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand,
saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.
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Just think of that,
God holding our right hand.
He will never let go,
He is always with us, forever and ever.
FlowerLady Lorraine
The most valued lesson on love you learned, Lorraine, is that it is best shared. You give it to us and we send it back. All our days are better for it.
ReplyDeleteI must admit I don't do much for Valentines Day and I suppose it's because I'm alone and the gd's are older now, but also because my birthday is 2 days before. You continue to inspire me I think I should make myself a special dinner. I was reading about how the French always set the table in a special way even when eating alone. They make each meal special. It's a way of honoring how important the meal is. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteAnother terribly painful and difficult occasion. .....restoring the joy, bit by bit..... what a wonderful and loving goal aided by your beautiful and amazing faith.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you deeply, across the miles dear Lorraine.
R.
Sorry Lorraine. I accidentally clicked on publish, before I completed my comment. Please ignore that one and delete this sentence.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely, thoughtful gift from your friend on your first Valentine's Day without your sweetheart. In a recent comment, I mentioned that I read "Come Away My Beloved" for three years. I replaced it with "Jesus Calling". It too, has been such a blessing and I look forward to reading it every day! I love the daily reminder of His Presence. It comforts and encourages my heart.
I could really relate to what you said in your last paragraph, both about your husband and the Lord.
I am greatly comforted by the thought of holding hands with Jesus! That is what inspired the title of my blog (Tandem Journey). I think you did very well on this difficult sentimental day: another "first" behind you.