Friday, October 18, 2013

JUST BECAUSE

It has been a while since I have written a post in this blog.  But, that does not mean I have not been receiving many smiles from my little grandson!  Jude keeps me smiling! So much so, that others might think I have had plastic surgery from seeing the constant smile on my face!  Actually, I have been working on some other projects that have limited my time blogging.  But, one of the smiles that came this morning, I felt the need to share.

“Jude and Granna Day” is what we call Fridays because it is just us two sharing the day together.  Every day I smile just knowing that Friday is coming!  Most people in the workplace are so glad it’s Friday because it is the end of their work week; it’s the highlight of mine!

As I was in the kitchen getting our day together, out from the living room Jude calls, “Granna!” I respond, “Yes, darlin’?”  With sweetness in his tone, and for no reason at all, he says, “I love you!”   I have heard Jude do the same with mommy, daddy,  all his grandparents and others.  Just because…

Something Jude and I started and really enjoy doing on most Fridays is our “othersB4me” project.  This is where we help out in our community as a way of saying “Thank you!”  Jude has visited the fire and police departments delivering candy (his choice) and told them “Thank you for helping and protecting us.”; He has helped teachers pass out snacks to those with learning disabilities as to say “Thank you” to the teachers and “I’m your friend, too.” to those with a disability; Jude also, picks up trash at the community parks where he loves to play and fish!

Today was the monthly “park” day. Without a complaint, he got his trash bag and began picking up the trash.  After we washed up, before our picnic at the park, Jude prayed a prayer of thankfulness from a heart of love.  Though I might think I’m teaching him, he is really teaching me.  Work without complaint and love others,  just because…

Isn’t that what being Christ-like is all about?  When Jesus Christ died on that old rugged tree, was beat upon and mocked, He did not complain.  His love is so massive that He will forgive as far as the east is from the west!  We could never repay such a great love as this and He still loves us… just because.   It is amazing He sees that much value in me and in you. There is no greater love to ever be found.  We are never too far away to not hear Him say, “My child!” and then… just because… with arms wide open, in many ways He is shouting, “I love you!” 

Putting “othersB4me” is an act of love without complaint.  Before even walking out the door, Jude started off the morning by putting me first with those sweet words, “I love you!”… just because.

He’s my forever smile.