A Near Catastrophe

Yesterday we had a near catastrophe in our house! My two oldest children came downstairs...Joy was in tears and J.D. followed behind with a broken trophy in his hands. The trophy belonged to Joy, but was broken by Jaylyn, who was still upstairs with tears.

Joy, my little achiever, was having a real hard time handling her broken trophy. Honestly she was a bit out of control.

J.D., my little guy who loves to give his treasures away, really didn't understand the "big deal."

And Jaylyn, my tender little lady felt really bad even though it was an accident.

So there I was in the midst of making dinner, trying to keep Jesse from crying and keep Jed out of the refrigerator...what had seemed like a challenge now appeared a walk in the park when compared to the crying, finger-pointing and noise that surrounded me.

Earlier in the day, I'd heard our MOPS mentor share how God is great and He holds all things together. Truths I know and believe, but honestly in the midst of these "catastrophes" (they happen more often than I'd like) these truths aren't always the first things that come to mind or dictate my actions. But yesterday they did and as the chaos grew around me, I found myself quietly whispering, "OK God hold this together and hold me together while you're at it!!"

Instantly a verse came to mind and I found myself saying, "What does the Bible say about treasures and them being destroyed?" J.D. went on to say, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." (Matt. 6:19-20)

He recited those words with a look that said, see I told you it's not a big deal!! I asked Joy if she understand the verse, she did, but we continued to talk. Eventually the tears stopped, the conversation came to an end and dinner didn't even get burnt!

Today I bought some super glue and later we'll attempt to fix her trophy, but for now God is using this catastrophe to touch my heart. He's been making me think about my trophies, the ones I worked hard for and even enjoyed receiving, but now sit on the back of a shelf collecting dust or in a box packed away forever. He's also brought to mind treasures I strive for and store up here on earth...ones that will not last.

But He's shown me something else as well...when I stay close to Him, He is near to me and when I speak to Him, He will answer. Like I said my response in moments of chaos is usually one I'm not proud of, but yesterday it was different and I'm grateful...not just because I didn't feel guilty and like a terrible Mom afterwards, but because the moment I shared with my little ones is a treasure...one He will store in heaven!

Friend, today I challenge you to look at the trophies and treasures in your home and in your heart! Take my word for it...don't wait for a catastrophe to force you into action! Examine your heart and ask God to show you the treasures that are eternal!!