I’ve been blessed in my life to have had military wives as friends, and I’ve learned a lot from them. I respect and admire them so much. When their family is stationed somewhere new, the women know that they will only be there for a short time. Therefore, the women have learned ways of making the most of the time they have in their new home.
One friend summarized it this way. “The first thing I do is put out my pictures of family and friends. That makes any place feel like home to me.”
Yes, families and friends give us an anchor in this life. They point to the most important things here on this earth to us. “The second thing,” she says, “is that I plant things – flowers, trees, whatever it’s the season for. I know I’ll enjoy them and nurture them for a while; then, I’ll pass them on to others who will watch them grow and enjoy them.”
She grows the plants in season – she doesn’t try to force daffodils in December. Just as we should work within the seasons of our lives and not try to force something that it isn’t the right time for. And she knows that these earthly things are hers for only a while. She is giving to others, willing to invest some of herself and her time for their future enjoyment.
She continues. “Planting also gets the kids and myself involved in something outdoors. We meet people, make friends in the neighborhood, and become comfortable with where we are. Aside from the usual children’s activities, it’s one of the best ways I know to meet people. Everyone comes by to stop and chats.”
The military wife is an excellent example for us. We should anchor ourselves with family and friends, allow our talents to grow beautiful things around us, and get to know others while investing in them. We all know that our tour of duty here on earth has a time limit, so we need to make the most of the time God gives us. We will never know when we will be transferred.
Memory Verse:
“That we may get us a heart of wisdom.”
– Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Lord, please teach me the value of everyday moments, of family and friends, of investing in others and reaching out to them. Teach me to truly number my days that I may be a blessing in this short life….”
Contributing Writer:
Bobbie Bonno
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