Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Going on a Treasure Hunt

As I undecorated yesterday, I had to giggle at our eclectic ornament collection. These are just a few of the treasures I wrapped and boxed up.




Our tree has everything from musical instruments to Star Wars characters and battle ships. There are Victorian style collectibles and bedazzled cowboy boots. Each ornament holds a special place in my heart. Some were gifts, others handmade by my girls.

Each one marks a time in our life. Some you would say were good times, others, not so good. As I took my annual trip down memory lane I couldn't help but think of the theme God has given me for 2011.

Back in October, God began to put a theme and a verse in my path.

Habakkuk 1:5

Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.

The idea of being wonder filled or astounded by the hand of God was what kept coming up. Conversations, sermons, and music worked together to remind me to look for the handiwork of God. For two months I was gently confronted with this theme. Then came December and Deeper Still Birmingham.

On that Saturday afternoon we were given this verse and I knew that it was my verse for 2011.

Isaiah 45:3

I will give you the treasures of darkness and the hoards in secret places, that you may know that it is I, the LORD, the God of Israel, who call you by your name.

Those Christmas ornaments are treasures to me, but some of the memories associated with them not pleasant or easy to think about. (Like the ones we were given or purchased during Chad's sick years.)

Yesterday, I made a point to slow down. To stop and think about what God taught me during those tough years. He reminded me of times when He showed us more of Himself through provision, healing, comfort....

Those memories are the treasures of those dark times. I can honestly say, I wouldn't trade them for anything. It was all worth it.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Great post. Great Scripture. Thanks!

Sheryl

Anonymous said...

Sometimes when I read what you write, I wonder if we are sisters separated at birth! :)

Our tree is exactly the same -- a hodgepodge of everything elegant and witty and hokey and handmade and lovely and everything else! But I wouldn't have it any other way because that is really the way I am! :)

I got my scripture at DS, too, and it was II Chronicles 20:12:

"For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You."

Keeping my eyes on Him from this day forward -- through everything!

I want to know you better, girl! I think we could hang. Taking a break from my blog, facebook and twitter, but contact me sometime. Let's chat on the phone or something!

Blessings,
Dori

Cindy said...

I love every sweet handmade ornament by my children. They were always treasures, but even more so now that my children are grown.

And I love that God reminds us of His provision during those dark times.

Praying that this new year is a blessed one for you and your family.

God's girl said...

You always inspire me friend! LOve you!
Ang