Tokens of my Father's love

My earthly father did not demonstrate love and affection, nor did he give gifts easily. Three gifts that he gave me as a child stand out in my memory: a tricyle, a pair of slippers and a child-sized table that he made for me. A few years ago I brought the table home from my aunt's farm where it had been stored. It stands today as a reminder of my father's love.

My heavenly Father surrounds me with His love daily in the creation He has made, the air I breathe, the beauty of the earth, life itself, the people He has put into my life--the many things I take for granted. From time to time, though, something occurs that reminds me of His love and care. Yesterday was such a time.

While I was selling mushrooms at the farmers' market, a customer who helps me from time to time came by and asked if I needed a break. I told her that would be nice, but to go ahead and finish her shopping first. Shortly after, a customer requested 2 pounds of assorted mushrooms, which takes quite awhile to put together. Just after I'd started working on her order, Mary Margaret returned to help. Before we could finish putting together the 2 pound order, a line of customers had formed! Without Mary Margaret there, I would have been swamped! Plus when I get a lot of customers at once, I get flustered. The Lord knew my need and sent help just in time!

To many, that incident might seem like a small thing, or just a coincidence. I can look back and remember many such "coincidences" throughout my lifetime, I know they are tokens of my Father's love.