Ashes Into Beauty

“...He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted

...to comfort all who mourn

...to bestow on them

a crown of beauty instead of ashes,

the oil of joy instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness,

a planting of the Lord

for the display of his splendor.”

Parts of Isaiah 61:1-3

 

Shortly after Boo's second stroke I read that passage...and laughed. Right! Like I should wait for that in this lifetime. I read the same passage last night and remembered...and was humbled by God's faithfulness even when I didn't believe. We have been so blessed.

From the ashes of isolation and fear when Boo had his second stroke, we were given the beauty of wonderful, supportive friends and family.
From the ashes of Boo's diminished abilities, we were given a beautiful team of medical professionals who taught us to enhance those abilities Boo still had and to cope with those he no longer had.

From mourning the life we anticipated having together, we learned the joy of the life that we actually had.

From despair and disillusionment at our dashed dreams, we've been given the immense joy of a life lived together in God's grace.

Today we thank God for Boo's strokes. Yep, you read that right. We thank Him. We are constantly amazed and blessed by our God who routinely turns ashes into beauty.

Call Me Blessed, Thankful Thursdays, Hearts 4 Home Thursday, Catholic Bloggers Network