DailyConnections.net

WEDNESDAY THOUGHT 3/25/09

The Blessings of Disaster
 
I led a charmed life (self-absorbed but charmed) until I was 45.  All that I desired flowed to me.  Nary a setback.  And I thought I was one swell fellow.  All the pieces fit together nicely, including some perfunctory God time.  My self-satisfied, smug arrogance could have driven a saint to drink. 
 
Then whappo zappo!  Two-by-four across the bridge of the nose!  I lost everything I had valued and cherished — family, fortune, et al.  But what I gained!  Faith, insight, compassion.  Did I mention faith?  Faith so thick I could spread it with a knife.  Today I am a wealthy man.  Oh, I have enough (exactly enough) for my physical needs, but I am rich beyond compare in family blessings, love, friendships, church and lay community, and a strong, rewarding sense of place and purpose.  Wow, Lord, hit me again!   
 
My point:  I was blessed by disaster, grew abundant by total loss, found everything by losing everything.  Celebrate your blessings today, including those disguised as disasters.  — jri
 
“[F]or nothing shall be impossible with God.”
    –    The Angel of the Lord
            (Luke 1:37)
 
Thank you for allowing me into your life this day.  Please pray for those who struggle, especially couples locked in domestic pain and misunderstandings, that the barriers between them may melt away.  God bless.         
John R. Ingrisano
204 Lakeview Drive
Algoma, WI 54201
(920) 559-3722
www.DailyConnections.net