~~The Memory of the Righteous~~

"The memory of the righteous is a blessing."
---(Proverbs 10:7 / RSV)

~~The sun was warm, but the wind had a sharp edge to it as I lifted the sap bucket off the maple tree. The bucket was full, and I focused my attention on the task of removing it from the small hook that held it securely to the tree.

When the ground thawed, the sap was drawn upward toward the branches to give the tree new life. This was the liquid that we would boil down to make maple syrup.

I lowered my eyes to the gathering pail on the ground and carefully poured the gallons of clear liquid into it. As the last drop fell, my eyes moved from the bucket to the granite marker that sat beneath the maple tree. It had been resting there for more than eleven years. On the stone were engraved the names of four family members who has passed away. Just looking at their names brought a rush of fond memories.

I paused for a moment and retreated from the labor at hand to remember my dad, my aunt, my cousin, and my mom, and the impact each had on my life. The memory of their love flowed into my soul just as the sap flowed from the maple tree into the bucket. God felt very close on that warm Spring day as I gathered maple sap by the old rock wall. I know my family members are now face-to-face with Jesus, the Person who gives eternal life. ~~

--"Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to remember all those who were Your hands and heart here on earth, those who shaped my life and helped to make me who I am today. I give you all glory, honor, and praise, in Jesus Name.~amen"

---GUIDEPOSTS/PP~
"Nobody Loves Me Like You"// Chris Tomlin (lyrics)~~<https://youtu.be/eyp_oL4m5k4>
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