Celebrating Springtimes of My Life
The Lord chose the springtime to bring me into the world. I was born on April 5, 1955, so next month, Lord willing, I’ll turn 67. I was never one to get hung up on age. It’s just a number, and my goal is to be like the person described in Psalm 92:11, “healthy and fresh and still producing fruit in old age.” I don’t believe I’m old yet so I’ll just leave it at that!
My two daughters were born in the springtime. So thankful for not being pregnant during the heat of the summer. Lori-Anne was born in 1973, and Sarah in 1989. Yes; sixteen years apart, a teenager and a new baby in the house at the same time. Life was definitely not boring. Lori and Sarah despite their age difference have a close relationship. My daughters bring great joy into my life. They are married now with children of their own.
A spiritual awakening occurred in the spring of 1998. Sarah was attending GEMS (Girls Everywhere Meeting), a youth group that met weekly at the local Christian Reformed Church. Parents were invited to the closing ceremony to witness the girls receiving awards and badges. The ceremony would be part of the Sunday morning church service.
My sole reason for attending the ceremony was to see Sarah receive her awards and badges. God had another purpose. The moment I walked into the sanctuary of the church, a feeling of peace, a sense of belonging overcame me. The congregation was friendly and mostly Dutch. They loved to sing and I felt right at home. I enjoyed the service, and knew in my heart I would attend again.
I discovered the importance of having a church family, I’m so grateful that the Lord directed me to this one. I joined a Bible study group and loved it. I appreciated being among mature believers. Their wisdom and knowledge helped me understand the Bible like never before.
My first grandchild arrived in the spring of 2001, and I was present when Cooper was born. Oh my, what an amazing event to witness. Cooper enjoyed spending time with me. One day he decided to scribble on the wall with a crayon. I simply grabbed a cloth and wiped it off. Being around Cooper helped me to lighten up and not sweat the small stuff!
A life-changing decision was made in the spring of 2005, three days short of my 50th birthday. I accepted Jesus into my heart and received the gift of salvation. Not only a beautiful springtime memory; a treasured gift, one that will last for eternity.
The years spent at the Christian Reformed Church were instrumental in my growth as a Christian. I will always be grateful for the love and support extended towards me. But after five years I made the decision to leave. One translation of Psalms 118:8 says, “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me.” This verse has proven true in my life. God led me to a spirit-filled church where all the gifts are in operation. What a blessing to freely use the gifts God bestowed on me, and see others operate in theirs. God knew what was best for me; and I looked forward to receiving all He planned for my life.
God’s timing is always perfect. In the spring of 2015, I met Mike, the love of my life, at a local coffee shop. Our friendship blossomed into a love relationship, and we married in October 2016. Through the challenges; the ups and downs of life, God‘s blessing are continually upon us and our blended family. We love to serve the Lord individually and together. We are grateful to be like-minded in many ways, that God chooses us to bless others, so His Kingdom can be promoted and gloried.
Wonderful events have occurred in the springtime throughout my life. When something good happens, some say, “You’re so lucky!” I prefer to say “blessed.” And I appreciate all the blessings the Lord grants me on a daily basis.
What will the spring of 2022 bring my way? God knows the desires of my heart and what brings me joy; I anticipate blessings galore, with reason to celebrate another glorious springtime in my life.
Anne-Marie Madore is the author of God Said, “I WILL” Promise Book. Details on the book, and her God Inspired Blog are found on anne-mariemadore.ca
