When Lindsay contacted me for family pictures, we had it scheduled for 2 days later. She then told me about their house fire in September and how everything is gone. I remember hearing about the fire but I wasn't sure who the family was and my heart went out to them instantly.
I couldn't imagine losing everything, especially pictures. Such precious memories.
I contemplated about giving her the 15 minute session for free given their circumstance and I eventually told her, I would do it for half price but that still didn't sit right with me afterwards.
My conscience was eating away at me the rest of the day and that evening, when I put my kids to bed, I read their Veggie Tales Bible story and, knowing my thoughts & conscience, I just sat there, smiling & laughing, shaking my head as I read these words out loud to my children.
"Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full ---- pressed down, shaken together, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." Luke 6:38
The Bible tells us that God will take care of us and that He will make sure we have everything we need. That means we shouldn't worry about the stuff we have and don't have.
Instead, God wants us to think about how we can give. For example, we can give time by helping someone, we can give kind words to someone who needs to hear them, or we can give money in an offering at church.
If you focus your attention on giving generously, God will pour out His blessings on you --- more than you can possibly imagine!
THOUGHT OF THE DAY: God loves to see you giving generously to others.
PRAY TODAY: Dear God, thank You for taking care of all my needs. Help me to remember to give freely and generously. Amen.
In that moment, I knew God was telling me point blank to give generously. When I told my kids the story of this family & why I was laughing to myself while I was reading, I asked them what they think I should do, and they said I should do it for free. I couldn't have agreed more. This was a great teachable moment & lesson for all 3 of us. I messaged Lindsay right away about my decision and I felt the weight lift and my conscience clear.
Some might think it's just a coincidence that this was to be our story for the night, but to me, He was telling me to give of my time and the talent He has given me. More often than not He doesn't speak at all, but I believe this one was pretty obvious. Message received Lord!
I met this family at Aaron Park on the Sunday and while their youngest son wasn't very cooperative, this is what making memories is all about! Thankfully, he was smiling at the end and I captured a few good ones.
If anyone wishes to help out this family, Lindsay mentioned they still need kitchen items, so if you or know of someone who has items to spare, you can reach her on Facebook or by phone at 220-1785 if you'd like to help.
Thanks for having me Lindsay, Steven & family! I pray everything works out for you all!
Love,
Michelle
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