I haven’t been motivated to post these past couple of days because my mind has been preoccupied. My younger brother Rob had been sick with what was thought to be a bad flu. However it wasn’t the flu and he took a turn for the worse and was admitted into the ICU on Sunday. He’s doing better now and will have surgery later today. Hopefully he will soon be back into the arms of his wife and newborn baby boy.
It’s so hard not being closer (we’re 400 miles apart) but I can probably do more good for him right here in my house as I pray for him and offer up my little crosses for him. I have to admit that this situation has been a good lesson for me. God’s been reminding me of a few things. First, to never take life (or our health) for granted. Life is fragile and can change in a heartbeat. Forget the petty and focus on the blessings.
Second, life may be fragile but the heart united to God is unbelievably strong and resilient. How many times have we seen people endure unspeakable pain yet they haven’t lost hope because of their faith in God. It’s amazing. And in the end God always seems to reveal good that came out of the tragedy.
Lastly, with my brother on my mind so much I have been constantly turning my heart to God to pray for him or to just talk to God about what happens to be on my mind. It is a reminder of how I should always be – going about my work but aware of God’s presence with me. I noticed that when I had to stop what I was doing to tend to another toddler crisis, instead of complaining or having a fit of impatience, I just sighed and thought, “I do this for love of you, my Lord.”
These lessons aren’t profound or anything I didn’t already know, but it was a good reminder for my short attention span….and as I’m sitting here thinking how to close this little post, a text just came from my brother in the hospital. It’s the first time I’ve been able to “talk” to him in awhile. I’m elated that he’s well enough to text and
I’m touched that he took a moment to tell me that he loved me. Wow. It’s funny that I’m one to tear up easily but I haven’t allowed myself to cry over this situation. I’m afraid I’ll start sobbing uncontrollably and freak out the kids. So right now I’m going to go change some smelly diapers and get the dishes done and keep myself occupied. But I think late tonight my pillow is getting a good, long bathing. Until then, please keep my brother in your prayers. Thanks so much.