A few weeks ago my friend, Jan, called and asked if I would help her with a Christmas luncheon for the twelve widows in the church. I thought it was a beautiful idea so I said Yes.  Jan had already taken care of most of the food details, so I volunteered to bring some dessert.

The night before the big day I got a call from Jan asking if I would be willing to pick up Mary – one of the widows who lives in Lamont, a 25-minute drive.  I said sure, so the next morning I drove to the assisted care facility where Mary was ready and eagerly waiting my arrival.  I introduced myself to her and off we went.   We had a lovely conversation as we drove to the church, where the luncheon had been prepared.  Mary has macular degeneration so is unable to see well, one eye is totally blind, the other is quite foggy.  She mentioned that if her eyesight was good, she would still be living in her own home because her mind is still sharp. 

We had a pleasant conversation as we drove, Mary telling me about her four daughters and some history about each one.  In a short time, we made it to church and enjoyed a lovely lunch and conversation.  After several hours the luncheon was over and it was time to take Mary back to her home, so again we chatted as we traveled, covering the same topics as the previous drive.

A day later, Brent – a friend of Mary’s – called Mary and asked how the luncheon was.  “I didn’t go to a luncheon,” said Mary, “I’ve been at the home all week.” So Brent called Jan and asked why Mary hadn’t attended the luncheon.  Jan replied, “Mary was here, Shari went to pick her up and took her home again.”

As I heard this interesting story, I became a bit peeved.  I had driven almost two hours with Mary in the car and she hadn’t remembered anything about it?!? (This conversation was going on in my mind).  Immediately I felt as if I had wasted my time, doing things for someone who didn’t even remember…

And then I had the sudden thought,

And how many times has God done things for me of which I have

completely forgotten or rarely noticed?

The sun comes up every morning

I have breath in my lungs

He provides oxygen for me to take a breath

He gave me a family to love

He was with me through all 15 times I have moved in my married life

He comforts me when I mourn

He’s given me a heart to celebrate joy

He’s given me friends in whom I can confide

He’s given me Himself to live everyday in joy and gratitude

Is there anything God has done for you lately? Maybe make a list?