Our family gift this year was binoculars. I'd like to share the story of purchasing these binoculars. When shopping early, really early one December Saturday morning, I arrived at Wal-Mart at 6:55a.m.! (Not at all my usual Saturday morning routine :) Much to my surprise there was a large line-up at the front doors. After they were opened and the crowd rushed in, I exited my car and went in the store. I was greeted with the typical "Good morning" from the senior citizen working as greeter. Then I asked "What was the line up for?" (explaining that I happened to wake early and choose to shop early for a change). She directed me to the sales flyer which outlined the numerous sales of entertainment games, Wii, XBox (not sure I'm even spelling these accurately!). "Oh" was my surprised response.I then made my way to search for the binoculars that were on sale. Here's an aside: As a homeschooling family we use Charlotte Mason's philosophy of education which places a high emphasis on "Nature Observation". So binoculars would be an invaluable tool in that process of education. On my way, I walked past the "Entertainment" section, where 35-40 people were lined up (again, this time in the warmth of the store, with others crowding them for a position) to purchase their much sought after means of entertainment!
I proceeded to the "Hunting/Outdoors" section! It was quiet, deserted, almost eerie! I then needed to search for a staff person in another department to unlock the case in which the treasure I was hunting for was in. In the solitude of the "Outdoors/Hunting" section I waited, alone, unhindered by others. That's when my mind was flooded with the message shared by our pastor on the previous Sunday.
"Live counter-cultural lives"!
Wow - it hadn't occurred to me that purchasing binoculars could be such a spiritual experience of encouragement. I was encouraged that we had by the Spirit's grace and instruction, been guided to delight in the beauty of God's creation, guided by His Spirit to teach our sons to observe nature so they too can worship our awesome Creator.
We look forward to a new year of seeing more clearly and perceiving the beauty of nature and our Saviour.
Sir Peter was delighted with his gift - which thanks to Oma - he will be able to utilize what she has taught him.
Given that Sir Gideon is very keen to know what gifts he will be receiving (either at birthday time or Christmas), Sir Peter and I were quite proud that we had managed to hide (and pay for) these Toronto Maple Leafs slippers, which we purchased back in October while shopping for his birthday! Sir Gideon was very surprised with them and is looking forward to using his new ski gloves which came with a very stern warning "Only for skiing!!"We hope your Christmas season was memorable too.
1 comment:
Just thinking and praying for you all today! Blessings! Teresa
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