I love my life. Sure, there’s things that drive me up a wall, tear me down, and wear me out- but mostly I live day to day- blessed because I’m learning to lean on God every step of the way. So there was no yearning or wish or dream of my heart that craved retreat or escape.
But sometimes-
sometimes –
God blesses
beyond what we can ask or think, dream or imagine.
A while back, our daughter, Sarah flabbergasted me. A long story made short, she asked Bethany and I to take a hiatus with her, Cadence, and Moriah to Sarasota, Florida. What? A mother/daughter/sister trip for 4 days?!
[Tweet “Take a break from life as you know it- open your heart and eyes to see #treasure.”]
A surprising interruption in my busy life.
A place of grace.
An oasis of love.
Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat. “ Mark 6:31 (well I relate to everything but the last part! I mean- come one who doesn’t find time to eat? 😉 )
Constant coming and going. Life at full throttle. So many needs, so little time.
Who can’t relate to that? We all have to plan our days and work our plan. I learned a long time ago, motherhood is a marathon- not a sprint and no one but me was going to know when I needed to take a break. So I plan small breaks, fun times of fellowship and relaxation each day—- but who has time for going away- taking a real break- and get fully refreshed?
BUT Jesus knew we need to orchestrate breaks and rhythms of rest in our lives.
In our 37 years of marriage- we’ve always done family vacations. Believe me, I TREASURE all those memories of family vacations; camping hiking, sightseeing, swimming, basically going from sunup to sundown. However, our “family” vacations were never about resting. It was all about how much we could see and do and experience before we had to go back home. LOL
So when Sarah and Moriah begged Bethany and I to join them, I was in awe that 1) my daughters actually wanted to spend time with me- and 2) that I would get to experience my girls one on one- something that doesn’t often happen in a big family.
” I am so totally unplugged. Have my days ever moved so slowly? I crave the warm kiss of the sun. Peace: breezy evenings walking on the beach, combing through shell caches for treasure, the rhythmic sound of rolling waves. Delight: seagulls glide over aquamarine water, the palm trees wave in praise, the tide is testament to His faithfulness, the sunrises and sunsets proclaims His artistry. His presence overwhelms my being.!”
But the greatest treasure wasn’t the escape- or the restful atmosphere, or the physical beauty that surrounded us.
Two great treasures were given- and received with thankful heart!
[Tweet “Thankfulness opens our heart to minuscule miracles. #life”]
The first treasure was a twinkling transport through “time”.
The responsibilities faded as carefree living settled on heart and mind. The freedom to delight in my Abba’s unconditional love with no distractions. He had no expectations or to do list for me- only to enjoy Him and all His has given me!
I am more than content. I am blessed. I am thankful. I am delightfully free!
The second treasure was priceless. I revel in who my daughters have become and who they are are still becoming. Wasn’t it yesterday they were always by my side, holding my hand, needing me to kiss their booboos? The bittersweet passage from childhood to adulthood is still filled with beauty and joy. Different to be sure, but the roots of our love grow deeper still.
[Tweet “The tides of time bring waves of grace and unending love. #family”]
Now we are mother- daughter- granddaughters- sisters- women entwined by God’s glorious purposes. Generations forever solidified by DNA, love, and Spirit.
[Tweet “Cherish each moment. We’re building memories one strand at a time. #family”]
These are the crystal clear miracle moments of life. Transported past our myopic vision of life- God lifts, inspires and broadens our understanding, baptizing us anew in waves of His endless love.
Jesus had (always has the right idea) Take a break- get away and be refreshed. (even if it’s just out of town for the day) Life will still be there when you get back- I promise!
My prayer for you today: May the Lord bless and keep you- may He fill your life with every good thing and give to you from His great riches- more than you can ask, think, dream, or imagine.
Surprising Treasure: 
Love, love, LOVE!!!
Thank you Serena! Praying the Lord refreshes and fills each one of us as we “get away” with Him. hugs and blessings
I was so glad that Cindy got away… The physical rest was great–the spiritual rest even better.
I’m glad I did too! It was kind of the “calm” before the storm. 😉 Wow- it’s been real ever since we got back.