Reading in the Old Testamant, in Ezekiel, we know that the prophet was speaking for the Lord, for God's Chosen People, Israel. God promised His people "showers of blessings."
Today, I attended a mini-wedding shower at my school for one of our young special-ed teachers planning a wedding as soon as school gets out. Tomorrow, I set out to attend another shower for my second cousin, expecting a son this July. A wedding nuptial, and a precious newborn: reasons, occasions to "shower someone" with blessings. We do that. We buy lots of gifts, practical and cute. We check off the registry and ask the color of the nursery. We might stock the bride's shelf with spices and unique kitchen gadgets or get the mom-to-be a year's supply of diapers. Maybe it's just a card with cash stuffed in it or several gift cards. I always appreciate the hand-made items, the crocheted blankets, the monogrammed towels, pictures set in special frames.
When Christ, the Messiah came, Israel's Redeemer, God sent His Son, not just for the Israelites to receive the blessing, but the Gentiles too. In Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul tells us that the Gospel is for the Jews first and then the "Greeks." When we become one with the Bride of Christ, when we are conceived in His grace, born again as Believers, it's like getting an invitation to a shower given by the Lord for us, everyday.
He has a banquet waiting for us. Fellowship with others makes us feel connected, loved, appreciated. He gives us special gifts, practical things, gifts we can use for others, tools to help us love one another and serve. Others come, invited as well, to help us, teach us and we learn together how to use our gifts. He gives us personal blessings, monogrammed with His love. He encourages us to capture everything for memory, to continue to share and encourage ourselves and others when sometimes only a deflated balloon lingers and confetti seems like an annoyance. The Lord is quick to send the Holy Spirit to get our lives cleaned up. "Come, He says, blessings await."
When we RSVP, Recognize the Son, a Validation of us in His Providential plan of forgiveness, what a soiree is held in Heaven! Showers of blessings arrive at the right time and place. Many times we are surprised, delighted really, for God is so good to pick the perfect shower gifts. Heaven, yes some do think it is going to Hobby Lobby, but those angels in Heaven? They are the Supreme Party Planners! Can you give us a Pinterest Page?!
Lord, Thank you for your many blessings. Thank you for the promise of new love in both a marriage and in becoming a mother. Thank you for the blessing of fellowship and friendship that help us celebrate these milestones, these sacred occassions in our lives. When we receive Your blessings, help us to recognize all that we have, not what we don't and help us to use our gifts to Your Glory. May each day we have with You Lord, be a reason to celebrate. Help us Lord to shower others as well with Your goodness and promises. Amen.
