Blessed

We had company at our house last night. Gary and I really enjoy having folks over. It is one of the reasons we bought the house that we did: big open area right in the middle. Come on over!

We had ham, potatoes, bread, and veggies. Nothing dramatic, but just good food. There was a problem: the ham was dry. So, do I mention it or just let it go? What would you do? If it was my family or close friends, I'd just announce it. "Boo! The ham is dry. Sorry folks. Eat it with your potatoes and it'll taste better." (My potatoes last night were possibly the best that I've ever made.) I didn't annouce the dry ham though. Why?

The family that we had over is new to the area. They moved here from another country and we really don't know them. I know the mom, but not the dad or kids. It is strange to just make an announcement like "dry ham alert!" to strangers.

Aside from the meal, it was a great time. English is their second language and the husband especially spoke very little English. He was a great match for me who speaks very little Spanish! Throw in Gary who speaks four words and we got ourselves a party! My ducks could understand a lot of what was said though. We talked together, shared a love of brownies, and laughed at Penny.

After they left, God started poking a me. Then He nudged me a little bit. . . then a bit harder. See friends, I often struggle with financial security. The Devil attacks me often in this area. . . "If only I had a little more. . . if only I knew we wouldn't struggle with X, Y, and Z. . .blah blah money blah blah. . . ." I know I am blessed. I give thanks that we can live in this community. I'm blessed because we are making it on one income. I can't believe I'm living out my dream! God hit me over the head because this family left it all to come to America. They gave it up and are now living on a part time salary. PART TIME! They have so very little and they struggle. They walked into my house and suddenly, I felt awkward. The high ceilings, the big dining room table, couches in the living room and the basement, four bathrooms. . . it all seems excessive. What are my priorities? Would I give it all up?

Gary and I had a most wonderful conversation about such issues after they left. God is amazing and gracious and good and loving and giving us the most abundant things. Where are we standing with our money? Where it is going? How much are we giving away? How are we choosing where our money goes? What things to we buy for our kids and what do we pass up? It was good stuff that we aren't done talking about. Good Stuff.