As strong as I feel I am and as much as I treasure being a Mama above everything in the world, between school, karate, baseball, dance, piano, soccer, scouts, church callings, family time, housekeeping, my job, my other job, charity projects and somehow trying to fit in time to nourish my spirit & soul, maintain friendships and have a social life, I have been feeling extremely overwhelmed this week...and very under validated. Today was one of the most difficult days as far as that is concerned. I felt more under validated at work today that I ever have. It is a heavenly job..nothing short of it. Still, today was particularly challenging (and on top of everything else going on). And yet, as always, God is so very good. He is so aware of me and the aches and desires of my heart. I got into my car today after work, thoroughly exhausted, at 5:02 PM. When I got to the end of the lane, I stopped, put my head on the stearing wheel and sobbed. After about a minute, I realized my radio wasn't on and turned it on as I started driving again. The DJ on KLOVE (the only station I listen to), Scott, was in the middle of saying "...or not feeling validated at work." I couldn't believe what I heard.
Then, he (the DJ on KLOVE) said something so profound..and something that was just for me, from such an amazing and loving God. He said, "But then I was humbled today to remember that there is no greater validation, than what Christ has already done for us." I immediately pulled my car over, tears very literally streaming down my cheeks as I texted those words to myself so I wouldn't forget this tender mercy. The text message from myself was sent at 5:09 PM. Seven minutes. Seven minutes after I had gotten into my car, aching for ANY sort of validation and within mere MINUTES, God was there to remind me that He sent His son to die for me. THAT is how much I am worth to Him.
I have seen this picture a thousand times, my entire life. However, I don't think I saw it the same way that I did when I found it online tonight. I love this tender picture....the way He is holding the sweet little girl's face in His hands. I can't help but picture myself in her place...my face in His hands as He looks me in the eye and says so sincerely, "My sweet Heather, don't you know who you are? You are mine. I gave my life for you. I loved you that much." He died for me. For ME. I am worth His very life. And if I was the only person alive, He would still have done it just...for...me. What greater validation is there than that? How grateful I am for this amazing tender mercy today....one of SO MANY in my life lately. Without fail, God never ceases to amaze me at how CONSTANT His hand is in my life. So blessed.
(Just discovered a new artist, David Bowman, tonight as well. SUCH beautiful work...and Christ portrayed SO MUCH like I imagine Him. My heart was so moved by this man's depictions of Christ. Another beautiful tender mercy. The painting in this entry takes my breath away...."Security." It is, hands down, one of the most beautiful pictures I have ever seen. Those who know me, have no questions why I would love this painting so dearly. Just purchased the print and will be saving my pennies to get it framed for my house. Beautiful.)
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I love your perspective, as always. I have that second picture of Christ and love it.
Posted by: creole wisdom | May 26, 2011 at 08:34 AM
Such an inspirational story. I always look forward to your posts ... I know they often reflect a painful moment in your life but you have an amazing gift of finding the good in each situation.
Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Nancy | May 26, 2011 at 09:20 AM
I LOVE David Bomwan and bought his "Come" picture of Peter walking on the water b/c that's my word/phrase for the year...Walk on the Water too. Thanks for always sharing your struggles and trials, but also your tender mercies in overcoming them. I know how hard it is to be a single divorced Mom, but I truly feel that the Lord has such a special place in his heart for us! :)
Posted by: Lisa Johnson | May 26, 2011 at 10:06 AM
Very moving post, Heather. Like many of yours are as of late. I too only listen to KLOVE. :) Great stuff.
I had more to say but couldn't make it come out right. God bless you.
Posted by: Zach | May 26, 2011 at 10:19 AM
You never cease to amaze me Heather! Thank you for sharing your testimony. The spirit was very strong as I read your post. Thank you - Thank you!
Posted by: Pattie | May 27, 2011 at 12:49 PM