I spent a long day at work. I had just returned from a 4 day trip to Chicago with my husband. It was wonderful. We left the kids with my mom and had an "adult" trip in the heart of the city. Formal events, parties, a wedding...a beautiful time.
And then I returned...
My inbox was full, as well as, my voicemail. I spent the bulk of the morning returning communications followed by an afternoon at the showroom followed by an evening at our new building at church...painting.
I was tired. Dead tired.
There are many opinions flying when designing a new church. I was in charge of the overall design and was grateful for the many helping hands in getting the job done. But...as I said...many opinions. Who knew that a particular paint color would cause so much concern? (Obviously those who have done this before---this is new for me!)
So, I answered the questions the best I could. Addressed concerns, encouraged the workers, picked up a paintbrush. I dug right in. (And, I was so tired.)
In the middle of a "discussion", my good friend came up and hugged me from behind and whispered something in my ear.
She said: EGR.
What does that mean? I asked.
Extra Grace Required. She replied.
I nodded appreciatively and hugged her. What a blessing this friend is and what words of wisdom she spoke in her acronym!
It worked. Immediately, I felt a gentleness that come from her words; that came from Christ. I began to ponder the grace shown to me---both in the past and the present. By others but especially by Christ.
What If...We Gave The EGR?
Today, Tomorrow. Forever.
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4 comments:
Randee, dear, I don't know how you did it! I'm amazed by your stamina and your dedication. Extra grace required indeed. I would have needed buckets. How beautiful that her spoken words awakened such gentleness and awareness of Christ within you. May I give extra grace today, tomorrow and always, and also be reminded of giving myself that grace when needed. Your post speaks volumes to me. Thank you.
Anne,
I miss you so much. It seems like ages since we've talked yet I know it's only been days...perhaps a week.
Ah, the lesson you speak: to have grace on oneself. Exactly what I said to another sister this morning who was really beating herself up. Isn't He wonderful? To place little bits of wisdom into His own nature for us to implement at just the right time.
My friend blessed me with her words. I "paid it forward" to another friend. And, you reciprocate. How lovely! Isn't He lovely?
Paying it forward...reciprocating...all of it coming around in a lovely God circle. Yes, he's lovely! Yes, indeed!
Extra Grace Required. Isn't that what we all need from time to time? I know I sure do and so I try to give it to others when needed.
Just beautiful when it is paid forward and reciprocated! Thanks for sharing.
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