Categories
Faith Family Self-care

Just Because

It’s been a few weeks since I’ve written. Life has been a little crazy and we have been dealing with some hard things in our family. I’ve spent my moments caring for my husband and children, learning about who we can trust, and running to my Father in heaven who loves me, knows me, and comforts me.

In my quiet times, the song “Just Because” by Judah has touched my heart and reminded me of God’s undeserving love for me and my family.

Below are the words and you can listen to the song here:

“Boldly I come into his arms / with nothing to bring but all of my heart / How could this be? The way He looks in my eyes / All broken and crimson sin, He sees only white.

And I can’t do anything to gain what He’s done / He just loves me, ’cause He loves me, ’cause He loves me, just because He does

Tired and afraid, forgotten what’s paid / so I’ll hide in my shame, like an orphan in chains / I ran from my promise, but it’s never enough / ’cause my walls and my mountains always run out of luck

And I can’t do anything to deserve what He’s done / He just loves me, ’cause He loves me, ’cause He loves me, just because He does

I’m His beloved, I am His friend / His love has no limit from beginning to end / No angel or demon will ever separate / me from His goodness and His wonderful gaze

So let me remind you of all that He’s done / He just loves you, ’cause He loves you, ’cause He love you, just because He does

You are His favorite; You are His friend / No weapon against you ever stands a chance / Not heaven or hell, nor darkness or light / will ever deny you of His wonderful smile

So I won’t be silent; it’s too good to be true / He just loves you, ’cause He loves you, ’cause He love you”

Categories
Faith Family Parenting

Building a Legacy

I spent this past weekend in Pigeon Forge, TN with almost 50 relatives. It was our Veerman (dad’s side) family reunion and filled with lots of fun and laughter.

From the day in 1943 that Marv and Helen Veerman birthed their first child (one of five), they began a legacy of faith, family, and fun that has been passed down through the generations. As we gathered this weekend, I imagine Marv and Helen were looking down and smiling as they saw their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren enjoy one another deeply, laugh uproariously, sing harmoniously, and live graciously.

Not only did I leave with treasured memories, but each family reunion always get me thinking about legacy…the one that was passed down to me and the one I want to create.

I’m thankful for the legacy of music that passed down from my grandparents to my dad, to me, and now to my daughter. I’m thankful for the love of sports passed from my dad to me to my son (also passed down from my father-in-law to my husband to my son…double dose!). I’m thankful for the jokes and humor and positive life outlook. But, most importantly, I’m thankful for the legacy of faith in Jesus Christ.

As a parent, I want to continue the legacy of faith, family, and fun. I want my daughter to continue to stand up for what’s right and be a strong woman. I want my son to see the joy and humor in everything and to love deeply. I kindness, grace, and forgiveness to be my legacy as well.

What legacy are you building?