While on vacation, not too far from where I stood, archeologists were digging up the remains of an early colonial settlement in Jamestown, Virginia. They were searching for buried relics; I was looking for my lost notebook. The pink covered pad, filled with important notes and phone numbers was as allusive as the lost civilization beneath my feet. My daughter agreed to assist with my search, so off we went retracing my steps. I began ranting about how stupid and irresponsible I felt for being so careless. Then my daughter chimed in, Thats how I feel, Mom, when I lose things and you tell me I need to be more careful.
She was right. My daughter hadnt once reprimanded me for losing my notebook; I on the other hand, had countless times chastised her for misplaced items.
You need to be more responsible,
Youd lose your head if it wasnt attached.
Not very helpful statements, and definitely not what you need to hear when youre already feeling low. Why is it that condemning others comes so easy to me? Its certainly not like my Lords character.
In Psalms 103 we read, The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He will not constantly accuse us nor remain angry forever. I decided that I had been way too harsh in the past. At trying times like this, my daughter needed praise not rebuking.
Surprisingly, I found my notebook that day. Someone had turned it into the Visitor Center. We all celebrated the find, but there was a greater treasure dug up that day, more precious than any old relic. It was grace. Ive decided to display it in a prominent place in my life.