Laundry

hope

June 6

As a child, I couldn't see much value in hanging clothes out to dry.

"Isn't that what dryers are for?!"

Yet, time has a way of changing one, and this one has a totally different view on hanging out the laundry.

Our makeshift line was put up due to necessity, but as I've been hanging clothes, taking them down, folding and putting away throughout the day, it's been nice.

It's brought beautiful memories to mind and given me moments to ponder how truly blessed we are.

"How does hanging out the laundry trigger beautiful memories?" You ask.

Well...our time in the UK always comes to mind, not only our year there, but the many trips too.

Laundry has to be done, no matter where you are, and most people there hang out their clothing, so when visiting I tried to be as helpful as possible and hung out or gathered in many times.

The summer I lived with our oldest daughter and husband I helped hang out the laundry or gather and fold.

Even as recently as our two years in the suburbs, we had a clothes line in the warm months and I enjoyed hanging out and taking in the clothes.

The older I get, the more I find enjoyment from the daily tasks of living.

Perhaps it's the season of life, this almost empty nest, causes me to enjoy the tasks of laundry for our remaining child.

Possibly, it's the seasons of illness, when I'm unable to serve others, unable to care for myself, that has brought me this appreciation for daily chores.

Maybe, it's simply understanding that life and all that goes with it is a priceless gift from God.

Genesis 2:7 KJV — And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

Yes, that is it.

Psalm 139:14 KJV — I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for showing me that life is far more than the activities I enjoy or the seasons I find comfortable. Thank You for teaching me how to rejoice in all things, no matter the circumstances, nor how I'm feeling. Thank You for that which seems to be a bother, like our dryer not working, for I see Your opportunity for blessing in a new way. Lord, even in that which is tragic, grief riddled, extremely painful, I know I can always praise You, for You are good and You are working in and through all. Lord Jesus, I lift up those who are called by Your name, please let them find joy and peace that surpasses all understanding no matter the circumstances, no matter the past, present, or future, for it is through Your people You reach others who have yet to know You. Thank You for that! Only You could make something as horrifying as crucifixion be the salvation of the world. I love You, Jesus. Amen.