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| Dad and me celebrating his 80th birthday, April 2011 |
“‘… And try Me now in this,’ says the LORD of hosts, ‘If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.'” Malachi 3:10b
My Dad has the unique habit of making lemonade at restaurants. He does not order a lemonade, he makes it with the resources available at his table. Typically, a lemon wedge garnish arrives in each water glass, and before the waiter can say, “May I take your order?” he has already grabbed a mini bag of sugar and is intently concocting his chalice of personal refreshment before our very eyes.
A memory I treasure involves a visit with my parents. We met at a restaurant, and our waitress graciously seated us before delivering water glasses complete with lemony adornments. After sharing an unusual memory from her childhood, our waitress asked if we would like anything else to drink. I tried to look busy with my menu while my Dad smiled at the lady, “I need some sugar, please … to make lemonade.”
Honestly, I can’t say that I have ever gotten used to this ritual, even though it has become a family tradition. I half expected the seven-months-pregnant waitress to toss a meager bag of sweetener my dad’s direction with a snear of disgust. But, no. My eyes grew wide with wonder as our angelic hostess brought my dad not just one sugar packet, but a bowl full of sugar packets, and in another bowl a veritable mountain of lemon wedges (at least eight)! Dad was ecstatic while Mom handled her shock in a most gracious manner.
This reminds me of God’s lavish lovingkindness toward us. We eventually get around to asking God for help (sometimes as a last resort). And what does God do? Does He toss us a lame little sugar packet with a scowl on His face? No way! God delights in meeting every need, heaping upon us His powerful resources and sweet comfort to strengthen us along the way. All we need to do is ask. And, of course, the tab is on Him.
P.S. After the meal, my Dad generously ordered a giant hot fudge sundae for us to share, just to say, “I love you!” Thanks, Dad – I love you, too!
“Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive,
that your joy may be full.” John 16:24
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16
Women on God's Mission 
What a great story and reminder!! How true!! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
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