“And we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him.” 1 John 4:16
When I was young, some of my favorite memories were spending time at my grandma’s house. There was nothing extraordinary about the visits. Every day was pretty much the same. She was either cooking, washing, cleaning, chasing my cousins and me, tending to my aunt Laura Mae, or ironing clothes for “customers”.
Grandma Edmonds was a “One Woman Show”. She kept one of those big old family bibles open on her kitchen table. I’d see her sit down from time to time to sift through it quietly. Come to think of it, that was the only time I remember seeing her pause from her labor. Day in and day out, that was her life. Even with all the busyness, there was a peace in her house. I loved thumbing through the pages of that old bible, looking at all the pictures, hearing her whistle old hymns from the kitchen, while she baked. I felt safe. I felt loved. The song below was written about those memories.
Pictured above – Grandma Edmonds’ Family Bible
Before all of us grandkids came along, Grandma Edmonds had raised my mom, and four other children, on her own. Her daughter, Laura Mae, had physical and intellectual disabilities, due to spinal meningitis. It was clear to see that caring for Laura Mae was a labor of love for my grandma. I remember her speaking softly and sweetly to her, while she fed her. She’d tell her how pretty she was when she combed her hair. She’d gently rub her arms and legs to relax her muscles. Laura Mae was safe. Laura Mae was loved.
“There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, … We love God because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:18,19
My Aunt Laura Mae
From my grandma, I learned the value of every life. I learned that I can do whatever I need to do, with joy. I understand that nothing is accomplished by wishing, but prayer and little elbow grease can bring about some amazing outcomes. There are no fairies, but there are plenty of angels among us. The stories in that old bible are not fairytales. They are practical, factual, powerful words of life. There was no magic up my grandma’s sleeve. Although, Love IS a miracle.
Until Next Time,
Know The Hope!
Tammy
Tammy Vice - Know The Hope 