The Kingdom of Heaven is like . . .
a few of my favorite things.
We stepped into the garden veranda. The jazz band was warming up. The low tones of the bass ebbed and flowed together with the soft melody of the piano as the notes to one of my favorite childhood songs floated through the air. . . .Rain drops on roses and whiskers on kittens . . .
Instantly my heart lifted higher than before. A glass of red wine
in my hand; a plate of freshly grilled steak and vegetable skewers on a plate in front of me; two beautiful women of God on either side of me. I was blessed! We chatted about boys, relationships and God’s will; about missions and our chances of finding Mr. “God’s-Choice” in Cambodia. Our faith and trust in God strengthened as we encouraged one another to continue on where the Lord has us, knowing he is able to move mountain and sea, heaven and earth to bring “him” to us . . . even to Cambodia.
The jazz music began as we continued talking, laughing and people-watching. Before long we decided ice cream was a great idea. I fetched it while the girls saved our seats. When I returned conversation ceased as we each tried very hard to neatly but quickly eat it before it melted all over us!
Then it began . . .
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens;
bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens;
brow paper packages tied up with strings
these are a few of my favorite things . . .
Her cool, smooth voice glided through the speakers. I pulled my feet up, rested my head back, closed my eyes and listened. Eventually, I began thinking about my favorite things from today . . .
the cool breeze of the fan that is lightly whipping my hair.
Thank you Lord.
the rich sweetness and fully bodied taste of the wine.
Thank you Lord.
the way this song transports me back to an utterly happy time.
Thank you Lord.
the girls on either side of me and our lighthearted, life-giving conversation.
Thank you Lord.
the savory peppercorn steak and the sweet grilled vegetables.
Thank you Lord.
delicious melty ice cream and hand-made waffle cones.
Thank you Lord.
my strong legs with which I peddle my bike.
Thank you Lord.
the adventure of riding my bike in PP, and surviving.
swimming at Olympic Stadium.
Thank you Lord.
The young group of boys we met at the pool who just wanted to talk to the foreigners; who shared what little food they had with us.
Thank you Lord. Bless them.
Time spent with Jesus in rest and meditation on His words and promises.
Thank you Lord.
The sermon I listened to about our words and the power they contain.
Thank you Lord.
Skype and the blessing it is to speak to my parents and best friends in Ohio.
Thank you Lord.
In that moment it was just me, the jazz singer, and Jesus. His peace and his loving arms wrapped around me and I rested there as I thanked him for my favorite moments of the day.
And for that moment it seemed we were in a completely different place all together. Then I felt the Lord say in my spirit, “Kingdom . . . Every good and perfect gift comes from above. ENJOY them. Thank you for acknowledging me in all things. Where I reign and rule, the Kingdom comes. As you acknowledge my reign and rule you will find yourself in the midst of my Kingdom.”
