8th day: NEW BEGINNINGS

After spending the 4th of July with my precious nephews and my family, I grasped anew why children are such a gift from the Lord. They bring new life. No baggage. Innocence. A fresh perspective on reality. They are untainted and pure. God's ways are so different from ours that we need new eyes to see. Their skin is soft, their eyes are bright, their insides are exciting and adventurous, awaiting the 'next thing.' They have that appreciation for birthday cakes with icing, a new toothpaste flavor, and whatever else they see. How much clearer it is that we are to become like little children to see/inherit the kingdom of God.

My brother, Jeff's boys and I went with Grandma Kurland to a wading pool. Their highlight was riding on our backs while we swam; or on our shoulders picking up leaves in the pool. After retrieving the leaves, we handed them to the lifeguard. She was so thankful for us 'helping' her clean the pool. That was a precious time of bonding. It's those little things that seem to bring the most joy. While we were leaving, Ethan insisted that we say good bye to both lifeguards, thanking them for keeping us safe! Precious!

This 8th day of July, a few days after celebrating our nation's freedom, I desire to view life through a new pair of eyes. "His mercies are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:22-3). I commit this new day into the God of new beginnings. "Behold, I make all things new" (Rev. 21:5). His freshness; His view of not remembering our former sins and shortcomings; His new day and new life. What awaits this day that the Lord has made? I guess we'll find out...