Deck Lessons

For a season we had a ping pong table on the deck.  That was fun!  Our original idea was that we would build benches that would slide under the table so that it could be covered with a large tablecloth and we could have picnics out there.  That plan never materialized and after several years, the table warped and it wasn’t even much fun to play ping pong on.  We disassembled it and used the wood for other things…  like a deck protector under our grill. 

This year, we began to plan  and dream.  We began looking at outdoor furniture and realized it was way beyond what we wanted to invest.  Initially, I dreamt of a cushy area to recline with a book.  The more my husband and I talked though, we realized we first wanted a table and chairs so that we could eat outside and play games with friends.  Next on the list was a base of two comfortable chairs, one for each of us to recline outside with those books.  We had a plan and we began to search.  We shopped online, we hit thrift stores, and slowed down for all garage sales. Yesterday we hit pay dirt.

For the reasonable price of $25, we purchased a table.  For another sweet $25 we purchased 6 chairs.  The table is yet to be painted, and the chairs will receive cushions, but it’s set up on our deck waiting for company.  I glanced at our new set up this morning out my kitchen window and I realized it had taken us 12 years to enjoy something God had given to us.  For twelve years, we had a blessing waiting to be used to bless others.  Granted, we used it some, but the full potential of what had been given to us was not realized.  It made my heart sad.  And it has made me wonder what else God has blessed me with that I have not truly embraced. Is there a gifting, a talent that I have not fully used to the potential God has given?  Is there a relationship that I have enjoyed, but have not taken full advantage of it’s joys and camaraderie?  Is there a person in my life that has much to teach me and I’ve been too afraid to step into the challenge the person provides?  Does my family really know the treasure each one is in my life? Do I willingly share what has been given me for the glory of God? 

The table and chairs on my deck hold great promise. I anticipate the process of crafting a colorful place of welcome.  And I see beyond the table and chairs to blessings God has created in me so that I also may be a colorful place of welcome.

“All to Jesus I surrender; all to Him I freely give.  I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live… All to Jesus I surrender; Lord, I give myself to Thee.  Fill me with Thy love and power; let Thy blessing fall on me.”