*Dedicated to Monique, Lawrence, Christopher, Bianca, London, and Riley*
Last year this time, Covid-19 was wreaking havoc across our nation, in the world, and the personal lives of many. Like so many others, I had to cancel all my family vacation plans. I was not a happy camper, but we do what we have to do, and there was no getting around the fact that there would be no traveling at all. I couldn’t spend time with all my children (I include my daughter-in-love as one of my children) and granddaughter under one roof, which made things worse. Everything was at a standstill because of the uncertainty of the unknown as related to the pandemic. But, thank God for “Family Love!”
Family love is what made the long days and nights of isolation, the fears of Covid-19, and the uncertainty of life in general bearable. So, to give everyone some hope and light amid the darkness, I made a promise. I told my children that if God were merciful and compassionate and allowed us to make it through the pandemic to the next year summer, I would give them the trip we had planned to the beautiful Tennessee Mountains with all expenses paid by me. Well, God did it! He graciously allowed us to make it past the harshness of the pandemic to get fully vaccinated and have our six-day mountain vacation. Every dollar that I spent was worth it because it was for “Family Love!”
Two weeks ago was our trip and I had a fantastic time with my children and two granddaughters, now! It was so great to be able to be together under one roof and enjoy each other. I gave my oldest granddaughter an added surprise by inviting one of her little friends to come from Texas and join us. Those two little girls had a ball together! I love spending time with my children and granddaughters, and they love being with each other and me. What a blessing!
The essence of this post is to remind everyone that “family love” is so significant, especially in this season. When everything else fails and falls apart, family is the glue to put things back together again. From the very beginning, God did not plan for us to live a solo life. After the creation of Eve, the first family came into existence. My sisters, you may not have a love of your life in your life, but if you have a family to love you and care for you, the blessing is already in place.
Therefore, love your family with all your heart. Be there when they need you. Comfort them in times of distress and heartache. If your relationship with your family or spouse’s family is not what it should be, do whatever you can to make things better and suitable. You are the one to step up! Nothing compares to “Family Love!” What are your thoughts?
As I conclude, I have an abundance of love for my family, natural and spiritual. That is for another time, but having a spiritual family is also essential to our well-being. I want to thank my children and granddaughters for all the love, joy, and care they give to me( yes, even baby Riley does her part!)They consistently do everything they can to support me in whatever way I may need. They are the best! The love we share is genuinely from God above, and I am so grateful. Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6. I’ll be back next week with a new post, “Peace Be Still!”
Be encouraged, and God bless!
Sister Jackie
What a wonderful and encouraging message; to the world. Family love (natural and spiritual) is so critical in my life that I call it my life support system.
Jackie, what a testimony! I too have a very close knitted family. All my siblings reside in Florida, however, we talk and/or text everyday. We’re blood related twice; and oh how nice. You see, each of us have a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ.
Often times when missing them became unbearable, I would hop on a plane and visit for a few days.
In 2020, we were all challenged to bunker down,
wear mask and gloves, distance ourselves and no taking to the airways. COVID was cramping my style. Routines changed drastically. I became a homebody.
Thank God for the support of family and friends.
We had more time to pray together, reminisce of fun times, Bible talks and share our appreciation for one another.
In my family, we actually love, appreciate and respect one another.
I dedicate this to:
my Heavenly Father, my mother, and siblings, and friends.
Yes, you have a wonderful family too! I have had the pleasure to meet many of them and form close relationships. The double blood makes the connections for you even more potent! The blood of your parents and Jesus, what a team! God bless you, and thank you for your untiring encouragement to me. May the grace of God continue to strengthen your family bonds!
Jackie, you inspired me to plan a trip with my family in 2021. Thanks for ALL your wisdom and great ideas.
Love you
Enjoy, enjoy and enjoy with your beautiful family! I look forward to planning another vacation in the future that will include siblings, nieces, and nephews, Lord willing! God bless you!
We have the best family because we were raised by the BEST mother!! We love you always and forever! Can’t wait for our next family vacation!
Aww! Love you all to life!!!! I am looking forward to our next vacation by the grace and mercies of our loving Savior! God bless and keep you always. I am so proud of the woman that you are, Monique! And you are the best daughter any mother could have.
We so enjoyed ourselves ! Ready for many more ! We love and appreciate you so very much !
Yes, what a wonderful time we always have when we get together, whether at home or on vacation. Thank you for being a sweet daughter in love and the best mom to my little sweethearts! May the grace of God keep and cover you and give you the desires of your heart! God bless you!