Joy in the Doing

 3/3/2023

1 Peter 4:10 “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”

My muscles are sore, and I am tired today. Moving snow 3 days in a row will do that to you, especially when you are not used to it. Unfortunately, my husband and son are not able to be our usual snow removal team because one had surgery and one has an injury (nothing serious for either). I must admit that these two have spoiled me in this department, as I usually am not required to go out and help. Now - for the next few weeks, anyway – I am a one woman show. It’s a lot of work as we have two of everything to clear, but I am so grateful that I have the strength and ability to do so during this time. Sure, there was a learning curve to operate the snowblower, and yesterday the snow was so wet and heavy that I had to shovel everything, but I managed.

The thing is, I find myself being joyful in this work and not at all grumpy or cranky like I thought I’d be. All 3 days, I have had a different chorus rolling over and over in my mind and found myself in a state of worship. Instead of being a drudgery, it has been quite wonderful. Another storm is on its way tomorrow, and I am not dreading it a bit. This, of course, can only be God’s grace. He has not only protected me from injury, but He has also put a song in my heart and joy in my spirit. The most important and humbling thing of all is that this is allowing my guys to heal without guilt or worry. This blesses me most of all.

Many of us, at one time or another, are called to step far out of our comfort zone to do something for someone we love. I have seen these past few days that doing this with a grateful and joyful heart instead of grumbling and complaining not only blessed others but can also deeply bless us. All it depends on is to trust God and being willing to be used. It is indeed a powerful thing.

Now I am ready to step into more things that make me uncomfortable or scared if I can be a blessing to others. No amount of wealth or possessions could make me feel richer than that.

Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”