Filled with remnants of memories dating back to almost five years ago, a quaint cabinet shelf patiently awaited it’s turn to be unburdened.
The young woman hurriedly carried the pandemonium of collected items to a new location. With a heavy sigh, she began to sift through the daunting disorder.
A piece of ribbon here. A faded scrap of paper there. Notes everywhere. An old forgotten recipe. The clutter seemed endless.
Well, what a fine mess this is.
Gingerly picking up an old white envelope, the young woman realized this “fine mess” was more than mere random scraps of papers. These scraps of papers, pictures, and various articles of information held reminders of mountains and valleys travelled through and conquered - an act not done on her own, undoubtedly!
The God of all creation, being a God of order - a trait certainly not reflected in the young woman’s disordered collection - could still be clearly witnessed.
An overwhelming flood of memories came upon the young woman as she sifted through the variety of paraphernalia.
A college acceptance letter - rejected by her own choice and by God’s grace - a reminder of a life-changing decision and lesson in humble submission and obedience to Christ. Joy.
An old ribbon and card - a heartbreaking memory of a precious confused girl, but still, hope remained.
A sheet of paper with faintly scribbled addresses and a tiny picture of a baby nephew - sweet memories and conversations with family, and desires of seeing them savor Christ.
A small green note card - reminder of a serious yet sadly neglected commitment. She slides this into her Bible.
Pink envelopes with cheerful encouraging letters - a reminder that a good friend is a rare jewel, especially one that cares to make much of Christ.
Notes from time spent attempting to wrap a human mind around things divine - time not wasted.
Memories of failures, memories of victories. Sorrow and joy; friends lost, friends made; dreams forgotten, dreams still alive and thriving.
Each item a reflection of God’s all-sufficient grace and divine providence in every chapter, paragraph, sentence, and even punctuation mark of her life.
Without condoning disorder, it’s undeniable: the God of order can indeed bring beauty out of chaos. It’s unexplainable; it’s beautiful.
- written by Michelle P., May 3, 2011
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2 comments:
It is beautiful. What a way to look at something like "unburdening" a cabinet shelf. Thank God for memories.
:) Yes, thank God.
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