One of our family goals during this time away is having more intentional conversations. We are beginning a discussion/study on the Fruit of the Spirit, from Galatians 5:22. The first fruit we are reflecting on is love. So many thoughts and emotions come to mind when we think of that word. And our culture has influenced our beliefs about what love is as well. But what we know to be true is that love is action...much more than a feeling or emotion. Love is demonstrated by our words and actions. We see this perfect example in Jesus in that he died for our sins on the cross...the ultimate sacrifice...and redemption in His resurrection. I am so thankful for this beautiful example and abounding grace that encourages us to strive to live a more full and free life, despite our sinful nature. Thank you, Jesus!
Luke’s thoughts about love were “sacrifice and thinking of others before yourself”. Wow, we can learn a lot from a 6 year old. Lawson and Lilly added that they can show love by being kind and selfless. As you can imagine, we are challenged with selfish, cranky attitudes on a daily (well, hourly) basis. Despite our best intentions to love each other well, we are human and don’t get it right! Can’t you relate?! But I am thankful for our time to be more intentional, hold each other accountable and remind each other of grace and forgiveness that can transcend the hurt we cause each other. Thank you, Jesus!
We are so incredibly loved by God. It’s beyond our human understanding. I want everyone who reads this to believe that more and more each day. Because when we really believe we are loved (fully known yet fully loved), our lives will be radically different. God demonstrates His love for us through Creation... what an amazing experience we have to see such beauty in this world. I truly believe that it all points us back to our Creator, revealing His glory and majesty. And it fills my heart with gratitude, humility and awe. We are on the Big Island of Hawaii now...and the landscape is like nothing I’ve ever seen. Dark, lava rock lay cover over the ground with grand mountains as the backdrop. And lush, green and colorful scenery line the coast, where the waters are blue and clear. It is fascinating and unique. Thank you, Jesus!
We are staying in a condo in the Mauna Lani area...and it has been nice to have a bit more space than the 1 hotel room we were in before. Ha! We have enjoyed cooking some meals and having some downtime in between exploring this Big Island. We went to an authentic luau at the Royal Kona, which was such a fun experience. We saw the poi come out of the earth oven. We got “tattoos” and flower leis. We ate a feast of Hawaiian food, drank mai tais and then watched authentic dances from all of the Polynesian islands. What a treat!
I hope you will enjoy the ride with us.
No comments:
Post a Comment