Inheritance

Sunday, May 15, 2011 Posted by Sara

2:33 a.m.

Before looking at my phone, I knew the text message would be bad. No one sends good news at that hour. Somewhat reluctantly, I rolled over and reached for my phone. It was a message from my sister. The nursing staff had called for my parents and Pawpaw to come quickly. My Nana didn’t have much time left.

As morning stirred, I faced the strange reality of a beloved one slipping away and the beginning of a new season in my own life. It was my 30^th birthday.

My oldest brother sent me an email that evening, knowing how difficult it might be to celebrate in light of the situation. He shared an unfamiliar memory with me. Thirty years earlier, he had come home from school to meet Nana at the door with the news that he had a new baby sister. The thought warmed my heart as I bravely tucked myself into bed in an attempt to rest. As I drifted off to sleep that night, miles away, my Nana went to be with Jesus.

Even today, only a few months later, I grin remembering my grandmother's infectious laugh or ache missing her generous hugs. I am encouraged in this season, though, of discovering a quiet truth - that the manner in which she lived her life has bequeathed to me a great inheritance. Her love of dancing, her ability to never meet a stranger, her value for family, and celebrating the small things have become treasures I desire to claim and walk out in my own life. As I take hold of this inheritance, I realize that those I so wish could have met her (my future husband and kiddos) will meet her – through me.

In Christ, we too receive a great inheritance. His life bequeaths to us great treasures. Imagine, then, who might have the pleasure of meeting Him as we embrace the gifts we have been given.

“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.” Ephesians 5:1 (NLT)

Beloved, join me this week as we embark on a little treasure hunt.