Short Thought continued.....

Seize the moment!

Something terrific has just happened!

Speaking to my parents about their move, from a country that has been

their home for over 40 years, to the UK, the sadness turned to joy.

They know they are being led to this new season and have confidence in God

for the future, but, nevertheless, the move away from what they have known

and loved is like grieving for the loss of a loved one.

As they prepare to leave, people have been coming out of the ‘woodwork’

to say their goodbyes and invite them for dinner and farewell parties.

People who have been close geographically but whom they have

not seen for a very long time.

Neighbours who have lived nearby in the surrounding area but who have never

wanted to set foot in their home, despite my parents invitations and friendliness.

My parents were able to share the Good News of Jesus with the group of neighbours that had come to the farewell tea they offered in their home.

One of them asked: “Why did you come to live here?”

They had been living next door for 34 years and had never asked that question!

Now, in their boxed up living-room, surrounded by neighbours who felt like

distant acquaintances, they were able to explain how, all those years ago,

God had led them to this place and was now leading them on.

As we concluded our phone conversation, my mother said:

“See! Nothing is wasted, not even our tears!”

The sadness turned to joy when she realised that even in the depth of her loss

and in her tangible fear of the unknown that lies ahead, God is at work.

God has been at work all along.

This was their moment to seize for Him and they did.

No bitterness, no despair, just a readiness to share the hope that they have in Jesus.

Are we ready to notice the moments God places in front of us

and seize them to share our hope?

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him,

so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

(Romans 15:13 NIV)