We’ve been having a fun-filled summer. From vacations and visitors to parties and picnics we have been living it up. I have to say, “I’m tired.” Is it possible to overdose on too much fun?
Creating memories with people you love and care about is truly a gift in life. This kind of tired is a good tired. Life is precious and even though hosting company and celebrating together requires cleaning and cooking, every minute is worth it because every minute is valuable.
My husband’s 91 year old grandmother has been visiting us from California, She is a gift. I’m not saying every moment is easy, because let’s face it, being 91 is not easy. However, when I see her play with my kids, smile and laugh, I recognize what time means. This life doesn’t last forever. We only get one shot at it. This poses a question. How are we going to live it?
I want to live a life of intention. I want every breath I breathe to mean something. I want to use the life I’ve been given to bless others in the name of Jesus. Whether I’m cooking a meal for someone or scrubbing the toilet at home so that my family has a clean bathroom, I want to serve.
Two years ago, my husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. We had a vowel renewal ceremony at our home followed by a beautiful reception. We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our love for each other than including those who have been a part of our journey. We wanted to have them to our home for a party (no gifts) so that they could be honored for who they have been in our lives.
The morning of the celebration I went to the salon to have my hair done. When I returned home, I realized I still had to clean the bathrooms. With my fancy up-do I remember scrubbing a toilet and saying, “Now I know what Cinderella felt like!’” I didn’t mind, because I had the opportunity to welcome others into our home and love them. 
Our job is to love others with intention. We must show who Jesus is through the love He first poured into us. We need to spill out that love onto others and watch what the Lord does through it. Oftentimes, it isn’t through fun and comfortable moments like a party. Sometimes, it’s by way of forgiveness for difficult circumstances. And other times, it is just sending a card in the mail or being kind to someone who we don’t think deserves kindness… ouch.
First and foremost we have to honor God by loving others.
John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (N.K.J.V.)
Today, I’m linking up with Crystal Stine for Behind the Scenes.
Dear Jennifer
You two are still a beautiful couple. I just love your beautiful dress. Congratulations on your 20th wedding anniversary. May the best of the previous twenty years be the worst of the years yet to come.
Love to you XX
Mia
Thank you, Mia. That was actually two years ago. We will be celebrating 22 years on Friday!
To love others intentionally is so important and often missed as we rush through our lives. How beautiful that you got to renew your vows!
Thank you, Barbie.
Lovely friend! I too want to live with intention for the remaining days of Summer and always for that matter! Our to-do lists and life sometimes get the best of us. Such a great reminder “our job is to love others with intention.” time to banish my to-do list into a corner for awhile. We are heading to the zoo today 🙂
Have a great day at the zoo, Jenny!
Congratulations on your anniversary! These moments are what we need to remember. So glad you all have had time to spend with family and friends.
Visiting from Behind the Scenes!
Thank you!
Jennifer, I love this. The pictures made me smile…but your words, “love with intention”…yes. It’s something He’s teaching me…that love is not always the mushy, huggy type. Sometimes it’s raw and difficult and done because it’s what He wants, not because it feels comfortable. Thank you for the reminder to love people today. You have a beautiful gift with words and an even more beautiful heart, my friend. Blessings and happy Tuesday! 🙂
Thank you so much, Mel! Have a wonderful day!
Jennifer – wonderful reminder for how to live daily 🙂 You are a true blessing in your words! Hugs to you this Tuesday 🙂
Lovely reminder. We have spent more time this summer with my 91 year old grandmother, and it does serve to help me realize the value of a life well spent on eternal things like loving others.
Happy Anniversary to you this week friend and what a lovely story and reminder that we need to do everything as if we were doing it unto The Lord… with a heart of joy. I needed your words today.
Happy to hear about your fun-filled summer and what a blessing to have the opportunity to serve and love on your grandma. Btw, I absolutely love your dress. Congratulations on 22? years.
I love this beautiful picture you painted “We need to spill out that love onto others and watch what the Lord does through it.” How much better would the world be if we would just focus on loving others then let the Lord work? Happy Anniversary to you and your sweetie.