October 14

In the darkness of the early morning, I sat before my blog and, as I often do, scrolled through the photos of God's grace. Immediately, the song that "randomly" (hah!) began to play was "You Have Been So Good" by Chris Springer. Overwhelmed, tears filled my eyes as I considered and remembered the goodness of God in my life. As the familiar faces of loved ones smiled back at me from the screen, I wept and gave God thanks. I recalled the good times and the laughter, the painful times and the bitter tears...yet through it all, He has faithfully held me and rejoiced over me. I'm His girl. And He is good.

The forecast for yesterday was clouds and rain with eventual clearing. Well, wouldn't you know? The sun shone brilliantly from sunrise to sunset. It illuminated each autumn leaf and seemed to set them afire...a gift from my Father to me. Once again, my heart couldn't help but whisper, "God is good."

Most of you who read my blog have probably figured out that pictures are important to me, and it's always been a dream of mine to have professional family photos taken. My husband had arranged to make this dream come true, and after an exceptional day of fun and celebration, we met our photographer friend for a photo shoot. With each click of the shutter, I had these mental images caught on my heart.

I watched the ease with which my husband can smile and simply be himself; his easy going, dynamic personality; his ability to put others at ease. I couldn't help but reflect on the selfless, countless ways he loves me. My heart was full...so full. "God is good," it whispered.

I watched our boys interact with one another and their dad. I felt the strength, height, and leadership of our oldest towering above me; I viewed the unassuming gentleness, tenderness, and sensitivity of our middle son through the camera lens; and I heard the fun-loving humor, spontaneity, and friendliness of our youngest as he joked with the photographer. Seeing each of our boys in front of the camera for 2 1/2 hours made their strengths, gifts, and differences stand out so clearly. And as I took in each one of them and tucked away the memories for safe keeping, "God is good" echoed in my heart.

In the darkness of night, with my heart feeling so full it could burst, I thanked God for the gift of life...for each breath He allows me to take. And I recounted the truths He's revealed: His mercy, forgiveness, sovereignty, holiness, justice; His lovingkindness, grace, and faithfulness.

And my God is good; yes, my God is good.