It was a year ago. It was a beautiful red house. And we were sure it was to be ours.
We couldn’t have been more wrong. In a very dramatic way, we were about to learn a big lesson.
Always having said I wanted a red house, I knew this one was perfect. I felt it in my bones. We were supposed to move in nearly a year ago. Perhaps I momentarily forgot that “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it (1 Corinthians 10:26).” We truly own nothing on this earth; we’re simply allowed to be the manager of things that are actually God’s. Even this house, this red house. But in my mind, my human mind, it was mine already. Ours.
The year prior to this had been an exceedingly rough one for our family. I became pregnant with Stellan and had been told he’d not make it to be born alive. Financial stress was crippling us as the bottom dropped out of the economy. My husband basically had to quit working while he stayed home with our children as I was hospitalized on the high risk antenatal floor of a big downtown hospital for weeks on end. And even when I did get out, unborn Stellan’s condition finally having stabilized, things did not get better. Instead they got, you guessed it, worse. My husband and I self inflicted terrible pain on our already weakened marriage. Our relationship crumbled apart and we spent time separated. Verbal and emotional abuse that both of us heaped upon the other finally ended with police and court involvement. We decided against divorce, in favor of intense marriage therapy, which we were involved in weekly for about a year and a half. Our marriage, hanging on by a thread, threatened to self destruct, to flatten under the weight of our unborn son’s unknown prognosis, the stress of other children to raise and care for, financial obligations that quickly piled up out of control and a relationship that had had its communication problems from the get-go.
By nothing other than what I believe must have been a miracle, we survived. Stellan survived. Our marriage survived. Even financially, as we laboriously put the pieces back together one by one, working hard to get out of the deep hole we’d allowed ourselves to fall into, we were getting back on our feet. Unfortunately, it was too late for some of our things. Being unable or unwilling to be good stewards of some of our possessions that, of course, are actually God’s, we got them taken away. A car repossessed, our rental house foreclosed on and then the home that we were living in sent back to the bank because we were so far behind with our payments.
It was our house, we wanted to keep it, we forgot to give ownership to God, and for months we worked so hard to keep that home. As we righted ourselves financially, our marriage also got back on track. Onto a healthier track than we’d been before, not fully healed by any means, but moving this time in the right direction. We were in a position to be able to keep our house, pay back our overdue amounts, but alas, it was too late. Our home would be foreclosed in a few months and the only thing that could save it would be to pay back the full amount of our loan. We’d saved a lot for our house payments, but not that much. It would be impossible for us to save that home, so we let it go. Vowing to make better financial decisions, to not let bills slip away again, and to let the Lord rule our home, to stand strong together even when storms hit, to stay married and keep our marriage blooming on healthy soil this time, we moved on.
Literally.
The red house we found was perfect for us. The price was right, the location ideal. It wasn’t in the country but rather situated on top of a bluff, open expanses surrounded it, with woods in the distant, sloping bluff sides. Clearly this was where God wanted us. We could just feel it. He’d opened this door for us. A home to make our new start in.
Even when all the pieces didn’t fall into place easily, we didn’t lose heart. We were given one closing date after another, only to have them fall through. The house was vacant, ready to be moved into. I’d been picking out paint colors and knew which bedroom would be which. We’d put an offer on the home, the bank loved it, and things were marching forward. But it was one thing after another with the closing date. Once, the banker’s daughter was sick, so we had to postpone. Another time, a form was found to be outdated and we had to provide another one. It was frustrating to be sure, but we knew that this house was ours, and we chose to be patient as we waited for the right time to sign on the dotted line so we could officially own it and move in.
At long last, a firm closing date was given. It was just a few days away, and so we got to work packing, hiring movers, cleaning our home. Since we could not pay the full price of the entire loan to keep it at this point, we chose to put the money we had saved for the home into our next one, and move out so we could try to sell it in order to pay the bank back for our debt before the home officially foreclosed. We had six months to do it, so we thought it was best to get out and put it on the market as soon as we could. Sad as we were to leave, we knew the chips had fallen. There was nothing we could do but move forward at this point, and to try to sell the home and not leave the bank shortchanged.
In a few short days, the closing date arrived. Our home was completely packed up, save ketchup in the refrigerator and our underwear and toothbrushes. We were anticipating the arrival of the moving trucks that afternoon, and swept ourselves out the door to make it to the bank for the closing.
When the phone rang.
It was our realtor, the gentleman who’d been helping us get into a financial position to move and sell our current home. He’d left a few voicemails by the time we realized he’d called. “I need to speak to the two of you right away. It’s very urgent. Please call me back.” Odd, I wondered what could possibly so urgent that he couldn’t just tell us when we saw him shortly at the closing? It was my husband who finally connected with our realtor. I was locking up the doors at home, and my husband was heading home from work so we could leave. It was my husband who called me to tell me the news.
“Hey, Babe? Did you get ahold of the realtor?”
“Yeah, you were beeping in when I was trying to talk to him. I’m done now. I’ll just tell you when I get home.”
“Tell me? Tell me what?”
“I’ll be home soon, okay?”
“Oh, dear. I do not like the way your voice sounds! What on earth did he tell you? I’m feeling really weirded out by his message and by the way you sound. Just tell me now, please! Did our closing get postponed again? Please tell me that’s not it!”
“No, it’s not that. Babe, the red house…it was struck by lightning last night.”
“What!?”
“It was struck by lightning. The realtor just found out. He was calling to tell us that it burned down.”
I was shellshocked. I don’t remember much after this, but I do know I pressed my husband over and over to just admit that this was one of his pranks, insisting that it was not a funny joke in the least.
It wasn’t a joke.
I rang my mom and then my sister, pacing our driveway. I remember gasping to my sister, “Are we cursed or something!? How can this be happening to us? After all we’ve already been through!? Why would God allow this?! I don’t understand!!!!”
I didn’t have to understand. God did. And the red house? It was His anyway. I had forgotten.
“Well, sis, He must have a bigger plan. He does, you know that. It’ll be okay.” And over the course of the next few minutes, my mind calmed down and suddenly, as I was standing out front, leaning against our trampoline, under the fir trees in the front yard of a house we were having taken away from us, it hit me. Like a bolt of lightning, if you will.
God does have a plan. He will cause beauty to rise from these ashes. Again. Just like He’s done before. The beauty may not be what I wanted it to be, or what I expect, but I trust Him.
As I waited for my husband to arrive at home, now without the plan of hopping in the car to head to our closing, since we wouldn’t be closing at all, God’s almighty hand of protection became clear to me. In the shock of learning about the fire, I hadn’t been able to see how miraculously He’d been protecting our family. But I began to. All those delays in the closing? Those irritating set-backs that just seemed like nuisances? I have to believe God allowed those to keep us from purchasing and moving into that house. A house he knew would be struck by lightning. He delayed things just enough. We kept our chins up and trusted Him, even though we had no idea why we couldn’t just hurry up and close. The home was vacant when it burned. No one was hurt. The bank owned the home and wrote it off as a total loss. And we were safe.
We learned later, after the remains of what was left of the home were studied, that it had been an electrical fire that had started in the upper middle bedroom, after the lightning struck there. In the room that was to have been Stellan’s nursery. A handful of times, I’ve imagined the horrible scene of a house fire with our family in a brand new home. We would be disoriented, not familiar with the layout, it could have been catastrophic.
Why did God protect us form this catastrophe? I don’t know. Why did He allow us to weather other difficult storms without calming things down the way we were praying for? I don’t know. I do know it’s not because of us. Not because we’re good. Or bad. Not because we prayed a lot or because we earned His favor. I don’t know why. I do know, because it’s in the Bible and I believe the Bible, that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” It’s about time I really took that to heart.
We ended up finding a different house to buy. Incidentally, it is also red. It’s quite providential how that move worked out, too, but that’s another story for another time. Currently, my husband and I are hosting, but not leading, our small group at our home this summer. The pastor of our church leads it and we’re studying money. God’s perspective about money, saving, giving, getting out of debt. And, as part of the rather rigorous course of study, we’re memorizing lots of Bible verses about money. It’s amazing that God gives us so many second chances. We fail, we disobey Him, and He still accepts us back in. Still loves. Still wants good things for our lives.
Still wants to bring beauty out of the ashes of our lives.
And I don’t mean earthly beauty. I’m not a member of the prosperity gospel. The line of thinking that says God wants Christians to be well off, that if we just trust Him, we will be prosperous on earth. He does promise to meet our needs. But beyond that? It’s all temporal. Our homes. Our cars. Our possessions. They are His. And they won’t last. So, while God gives us a temporary managerial role over His things, I’m slowly learning that it’ll be better to constantly remember that that’s exactly what they are: His things. All of our money is His. And not just a 10% tithe. All of it. The beauty I am talking about is in our hearts, not in our wallets. In the eyes of the eternal, not in the eyes of the world.
Our current red home? It could be struck by lightning in the blink of an eye. One of our children could be sick again. Our marriage could wilt if we don’t follow God’s design. But, no matter what, we have promised to trust God. He can, will and does bring beauty out of our human pain. Even if that beauty is simply a content spirit in the midst of ongoing trials. Even if that beauty doesn’t fully come until we die and go to Heaven.
But, in the spirit of being thankful for the ways God has worked in our lives, we vowed to make some major changes once we moved into our new house. Changes in our lives, our behaviors, our marriage, our money. We still fall short, myself to an embarrassing degree, but to see how God daily shows me beauty in my life is miraculous.
So, the other day, I did something with our children. My husband had done it, and so had my mom. But I had yet to. We drove to the spot where the house burned down. I took the children up that bluff and we set our eyes upon the empty lot. The remains of the house had all be hauled away. Or so we thought. As we walked through the weeds, talking about what had happened in that spot, we found reminders. Bits and pieces of the house that we visited so often. The house that was supposed to be ours. Or so we thought. After all? How can you argue with lightning? Or argue with God.
As we collected pieces of tile from the upstairs bathroom, twisted metal, broken glass, burned embers, shattered siding, chips of kitchen countertop and dirty shingles, we praised God. Kneeling in the dirt and weeds with the children, we prayed, thanking God for His protection, for his divine authority over everything, even when we don’t like it, don’t understand and don’t see where He’s going with it. We thanked Him.
For causing beauty to rise up from ashes.
Absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing. I am beyond thankful the Lord spared your lives in the fire. I know he has amazing plans for your family.
Love,
Rachel
I agree, God has an amazing plan in store for you and your family.
Our Lord is faithful! He’s a God that gives and takes away! We ought to praise Him for all the love He gives us!!! He loves you and your family and maybe this blog is part of what He wants you to do. Reaching out to others. What you’re doing is amazing!!!! Praise the Lord for you!!! Thank you for sharing!
Amazing story…gives me chills to read it again!! It is a miracle at how God works in our lives…as I always say with our life, “Everything Happens for a reason!” It is sooo true with every aspect of everybodys life. You will be blessed immensely if you continue to make the choices you are to change different things in your life. You obey and follow God he will bless you. Period!
Love you girl!
Tara
Oddly enough, I read this story today and then shortly after found out a very good friend and single mom to two beautiful babes lost everything they own in an apartment fire. We are thankful to god that they are all safe, but they lost EVERYTHING!! Please pray for them with me?
YOU are a good person and God is honoring that and blessing you in ways that probably none of us will ever understand. I truly believe that when one door closes, God opens another one for us. Peace to you ….
You are a beautiful writer, and this piece speaks to me of gratitude and hope and the crucial willingness to hand things over to your higher power, even when, and perhaps especially when, it seems that things are not going the way you hoped or planned. I am not able to quote the bible, but I do believe in God being both loving and in charge, and it seems to me that the people who can surrender to that concept both enjoy the good things more and tolerate the pain better during the bad times. You always acknowledge that your life has not always been smooth sailing, even though it is going well now!
I notice that even though there are a couple of sad and angry people who feel you should only use your site to directly help those in need, and not discuss the ways in which your family has been blessed, that can be (and clearly is, based on the number of positive comments here) a comfort to those who are suffering too. Without that, you wouldn’t have such a fan base. Yes, your posts are smart and funny and interesting, and so many different kinds of people from all walks of life can relate to you. And your photography is beautiful, and those gorgeous kids, yes, but really I think people flock to you because you have *joy* and that what so many people feel they are lacking. You remind them that it is there all along, in their own lives.
Thank you for sharing so much of yourself and your family with us. If more people celebrated the goodness of God while also promoting civility among humans regardless of their belief system, we’d be a lot better off. Until then, I’ll just enjoy my mini-vacations immersed in your world. Ahhhhhhh… it’s nice here.
I love that you returned and took your children. At a women’s event at my church last night, a woman discussed how people say, “We are one generation away from being a godless society.” Then she talked about the children of Israel, the great-grandchildren of those who wandered in the desert did not know of the provision of the Lord and they were “lost” to Him. The only explanaton is that those generations did not share with the next all that God had done for them. Anyway, this came to mind when you returned with your children to share what God did for you. I think that’s awesome!
That was one of the most beautiful posts you’ve ever written, and there have been more than a few. You might want to consider offering it to a magazine for consideration. “Guideposts” comes to mind, but there are many others to consider.
Thank you so much for this post. I so needed to read it. You see, I’ve been dealing with that same thought…..about how GOD’s plans are not my plans and HIS map for my life is not what I would have done….
I teach at a local Christian school. I did not receive a contract for next year due to lower enrollment/seniority and all that jazz. There were three of us that did not get a contract for next year. I’ve known for a couple of months, but was praying that in the end I would get one, as well as the other two teachers and life would go back to normal and all would be the same. But alas, GOD has other plans it seems. I must go and pack my things and bring them home, all the while hoping and praying that when school starts on Aug. 6th, I will be there awaiting my little first graders to their new classroom.
My husband almost didn’t have a job and for a couple of weeks, life was quite stressful in our household. BUT GOD prevailed and some others put their jobs on the line and my husband was given a contract…..he also works at the school. I know the economy has hit our school hard this year…..we are down about 75 students. Other decisions that we don’t understand are being made and we are trying not to be bitter about them. BUT we both know GOD has an ultimate plan and knows things that we cannot see in our finite minds, but with his all-knowing one, HE sees all that will happen.
I don’t really want to be a stay-at-home mom again. I LOVE working and teaching, for that’s GOD’s calling on my life. I love the social aspects of teaching. I WANT to be there. BUT GOD seems to have other plans for me. I’m trying so hard to just let things be and watch and wait and see what GOD has in store for me. SO, instead I will tutor and sub and do whatever I can to help out my friends in their classrooms and be home for JEB when he is out of school and thank HIM for directing my steps.
What an incredibly beautiful and thoughtful post!
Thanks for sharing this post!
We are currently experiencing a similar situation with a house and closing keeps getting pushed back. It’s nice to know that we aren’t the only ones this happen too, and how God’s plan was bigger (and better) than yours!
Very encouraging!
This post really touched me. I was just talking to my dad about the very idea of God protecting us. My mom just got diagnoses last week with a brain tumor, stage 4. At first I was mad at God and his timing. I just had my parents first grandchild 3 weeks ago and my mom and I we were supposed to spend the week together – not her in a hospital having brain surgery while I was home alone. My parents were supposed to buy their first house together and my dad was finally going to retire from the military so they could start a simply life together and my brother is getting married in a few months. Life was perfect and why did God mess that up? But after talking to my dad, we realized how God has been protecting them and setting our family up with what we would need for this time. They couldn’t decide what house to buy so they postponed until last week and now realize that the house they are currently in will be better for her during her treatments. I’m no longer pregnant and babies are surprisingly portable so my daughter and I can go spend time with my mom while she is healing, my dad just changed jobs and his new boss is a Christian who is very understanding and will allow him time to be with my mom, etc…we were able to name probably 10-15 seemingly odd “coincidences” that two weeks ago would have seemed odd but now we know are God watching out for us. I still don’t know why God is allowing cancer to enter our lives this way but I know we can trust Him with our lives.
Thank You for this. My favorite verse in the entire Bible (OK, at least the parts I have read so far) is this : “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11 This verse was spoken about when I was rebaptized on 6-9-09 and it has become my life line the past year or so! My marriage failed and crumbled, my children share time between the two of us, my past has come back to haunt me emotionally. I have been in weekly counseling with a psychologist since March 31st this year—a huge step for me! My body seems to be falling apart but I am starting to take care of that now, I am trying to sell my condo since 1st of April with no lookers or interest, I have found the perfect house for my kids and I also closer to church, closer to friends who can help me get thru this, but I am comforted knowing I am waiting for a reason that He knows because He knows the plans he has for me!
Thanks for sharing this today!
I don’t comment much but I felt so moved to thank you for this post. Thank you for sharing and for giving God all the glory!
Your post was pretty encouraging, MckMama! I’ve had THE WORST day!
All wrapped around financial stress.
My husband left serving a tough ministry spot over 2 years ago….and the months without income almost did us in,
I don’t think we’ll ever bounce back…..thanks for reminding me (I really do know this) that everything I have or lose….isn’t really mine anyway!
God is so good even when things aren’t going our way! He still is!
I have never commented here before, but read, daily and pray daily for your family; for your Stellen as you were so graciously transparent to share God’s living miracles with us all. This story you shared today struck me hard; here my husband and I sit, in this current day facing the thoughts of losing our home. Some from our own doing in the past and mostly due to unforeseen things that came along on our path. None the less, it’s been painful and difficult to trust God; to know He see’s our current situations and understands not only where we are, but where we will be. What a complete and under blessing this post has been to me today; truly I feel God pressing on my through your words. Thank you! You have a beautiful gift in your writing and I hope you know that He has blessed you, but that you are also being a good servant to Him in sharing your life as a open book for so many to watch God work though you and your family. My kids are older (not yet grown, but older) and I take great pleasure in using your stories to reflect on memories of my girls younger days. Thank you for this post, for being real, transparent, for being his servant. Thank you!
I thoroughly enjoyed this post. I guess it’s worth mentioning I enjoy all your posts, I look at your site daily, multiple times a day, anxious for the next post like a kid in a candy story. But anyway, I really needed this today, so thank you for sharing, and reminding us what is truly important, GOD.
So I have a question, that I have been thinking about for quite some time. It is for MckMama and others that follow her religion or belief. Please know that this is coming from a kind, yet inquisitive place
What I am wondering about is God saving people. Why is it that he saves some, but not others? Why did God save the McKinney’s and not other families? Does God really pick and choose? Why do you believe this?
In case you are wondering my point of view, I believe that God doesn’t pick and choose. I believe life happens and God is there after the fact. God is there to offer strength or whatever else it may be that you need and it is up to you to accept that help.
So, that’s it. That is what I was wondering.
Thanks.
Hey there, I don’t know if this will help you at all, but I wrote a post along these lines back in the fall when Mckmama talked about the purpose prayer. It’s right here: http://mama4real.blogspot.com/2009/11/revelation.html
Jenn, that’s an awesome question that I think many people have. Thanks for asking so kindly! The Bible says that Christ (Jesus) died once for ALL. His death paid the punishment for all the sins of the whole world, no one was excluded! It’s amazing! Yet, the Bible says that salvation is a “free gift” of God. Gifts can be given, but they must also be received, opened and used to be of benefit to the recipient. So, forgiveness and salvation are offered to all, but we must invite Christ to come live within us and “open the gift”…accept the cleansing that only He can provide and begin to search Him out and follow Him. It’s life changing to say the least! He does not force Himself on anyway, but awaits our acceptance of His invitation for salvation.
I hope this helps in some way. I also believe that God loves for us to question Him. I do it a lot! He is very patient with me! I think you are incredibly brave to ask this here!! I hope it gives you a bit of my perspective, that I believe Mckmama shares. (not speaking for you, Mckmama!)
Hi! I appreciate your question and I think it is a valid one that many people may have. I am a Christian too and have been for many years. From what I’ve learned from the Bible – God’s Word, the reality is that there is sin in the world. God has allowed mankind to choose what we believe and what we follow. Since He doesn’t rule over us as a dictator, that means there are other options too. Satan is at work in this world too. I don’t believe that God is absent when tough things happen. I believe he walks right through those fires with us. And is there on the other side. But I don’t believe God causes those difficult things to happen. Sometimes He allows them to happen. Because He sees a bigger picture than any of us can see. And with regards to saving people on a spiritual side of things…I believe God allows us to choose. I don’t think He does the choosing when it comes to following Him spiritually. He may know what we are going to choose in terms of following Him or not, but He allows us to make the choice. Because would it be real love and devotion if He forced us to follow Him?
Hope those thoughts are helpful! Thanks for sharing your question.
Thank you for all of your replies. Certainly gives me something to think about! Have a great weekend.
This was just what I needed to read today! A difficult circumstance came into my life this week and suddenly there are many things that seem uncertain. Thanks for another great post!
I love it when we actually get a glimpse of how God protects us because I’m sure for every ONE that we know about, there are thousands we will never know. Hitting all the red lights that frustrate us could actually be keeping us from an accident. That’s why I try so hard to put each day in the Lord’s hands willingly and just let Him do what He does.
There’s a tshirt company (that I think you may have mentioned before) called “WildOliveTees.com” and they have a shirt called “Beauty from Ashes.” If I had money to buy one, I would send you one
My spirit feels warmed
Thank you for this!!! This past month, through my own circumstances, as well as the testimonies of others, I am beginning to catch more and more glimpses of God’s faithfulness and provision to us. This was the “icing on the cake.” I shed some tears, thinking of God’s love and protection to me (and you), even when we don’t understand the “whys” of everything. I am a HUGE planner, and God is really shaking some things up right now. I know that it is because I am NOT in control. By realizing this, it is a redeeming point in which to be…I can’t do anything but know that He has plans for me! Thank you again for always being open and honest. Your transparency of your faults and your love for our Lord are such a blessing!
Wow. I am fairly new to your blog and just love it. Today’s post had my jaw-dropping. What a story of God’s protection and provision!!! What an encouragement you and your family are to all of us that visit your corner of the internet.
Karen
Thank you so much for this post. God used it to speak to my heart. I struggle with trusting God, mostly with financial matters (my husband owns a business and we’ve never). When I read something by someone who’s been there, it helps so much. Just this week, I got hired which will help enormously–and then today we received notices for old debts that we have to pay off and right now I have no idea how. Your post reminds me that it’s all in God’s hands and that even if things don’t happen the way I want them to, beauty CAN come from ashes if I commit to trusting him.
Beautiful! Thank you for yet another wonderful post. This is a tough topic in our home as my husband does not know the Lord or think this way. I am reminded that just because he doesn’t know/have faith doesn’t mean I can’t put all my trust in the Lord. I pray that I can be an example to my husband and put all my trust in Him.
Thanks again!!!
I am in the same boat as you as my husband does not know the Lord or think that way. I truly appreciate this post by Mckmama. Praise God that we can come to him in prayer and know that in his timing he will answer them.
God Bless!
This is truly one of the most single impactful posts I have ever read. Thank you for sharing it all with us.
Today….today my in-laws are sorting through what’s left of the remains of their house. My husband’s childhood home was devastated by a local tornado yesterday. Thank you for posting this. While I know the things that were lost are just “things,” they also aren’t just things. Some are things like paintings, like paintings my MIL’s father did before he passed away, like the castle my husband painted back in college, and so many other things that had been passed down for generation after generation, as well as childhood photo albums. But the mailbox….that still stands. The bathroom surround that was re-tiled a week or two ago…completely untouched…perfect. Yet, we are so very thankful that everyone is safe. We were all together, out of town at a church family camp. So, today is a sad day and yet a thankful day.
i’m sorry, but the timing of this post is in really poor taste IMO. people lost their homes and lives last night in YOUR state and others from tornadoes. i understand that there was potential for a horrible loss for you & your family, but the fact of the matter is that it was NOT your house yet! this is a case where i’d really wish you’d use the traffic from your blog to do good to help out your fellow man & neighbor rather than a post thats all about YOU and what you COULD of lost. i’m glad that your family was not in that house & that no one was hurt. that is a blessing! but don’t you think a greater good could be accomplished by posting for ways to help those that have just lost everything they have?
Writing about the provision of the Lord is ALWAYS “a greater good.”
I’m sorry but I respectfully disagree with you! Her post read very selfish to me. To me, it said that SHE was special and that SHE was chosen by God to not be in the house. HER family was saved! I usually do not have any problem with any of Mck’s posts, but this one is just really making me angry!! So much MORE good could’ve been accomplished by her if she had simply said “please pray for my neighbors who have lost everything because of tornadoes that have ripped through our area” MckMama gets ALOT of traffic to her blog. She could use this so wisely by making a few phone calls and finding out where donations can be sent to and posting the information on her blog. When I found out about the destruction from last nights storms, I actually looked to her blog as being a mainstream blogger from one of the very states that so many people suffered so much loss. I actually expected a post telling us how we can help. Instead, I found a post that screams ME, ME, ME and I, I, I to me. I’m thrilled that her family was not in that house and please believe me when I say I wish her no ill will nor am I a naysayer that is constantly searching for fault with her. I’m simply stating my opinion that her post was very ill-timed and so much more good could be done than be stating how grateful she is that SHE is not one of those families that lost everything.
How do you know she wasn’t doing that?! If you followed her on twitter, you might see that they had been out helping today, and that she has indeed tweeted about the devastation.
Also, sometimes bloggers schedule their posts ahead of time, so it’s possible that she pre-scheduled this one. Even if she didn’t…
Obviously God DID choose for HER family not to be in that house, and obviously HE chose that no one else should be there either.
I can’t imagine that this one post angered you so much, it seems more to me like this might’ve been building for awhile for you to take such a stand about it. That’s just my opinion of your comments though, not saying that’s how it is.
Also, I just have to say, who are we to judge what the Father puts on someone else’s heart at any given moment? It seems to me that this post was way less “me me, I I” focused and more of a “We don’t know what the future holds, but we know His promises are true” kind of focus. And I believe there will be many that find encouragement from that truth. I could go off on a tangent about how we dare to blog about our own lives when children are being trafficked and subject to rape and abuse every day, all day long, instead of blogging about ways to help out and fight trafficking. ETC. ETC. ETC. ETC.
“Beauty from ashes” is absolutely a perfect message for the people who have lost much, all over the world.
Soccer moms… get a life!! This is HER blog! SHE can write about whatever SHE wants! This is not the local news… SHE is not required to write about state/national/world events. If SHE wants to write about that them, then great… but that is HER prerogative. If feel that those events need to be blogged about then blog about them yourselves. Blogspots are free! I hope that my soccer mom life never gets so boring that I feel the need to come on to total strangers blogs and write mini novels about what the blog about. Seriously!
Said Perfectly…she is not the local news. This is her blog. Next time you are looking for info on where to help, call you local Red Cross.
I know exactly what Jen is talking about here. We had a house fire that burned 2/3 of our house to the ground and yes, I believe God SAVED us from harm at that time. It doesn’t matter that it wasn’t her house yet! She is not saying she’s special, etc. She’s giving God the Glory for protecting her family. Just like we give GOD the glory for protecting us! Yes, we lost a lot of prized items, but they were just things.
I truly believe Jen is a geniune person. She is definitely not a selfish person. I have learned that through the years!
I hope you can eventually see that God is the one being glorified here! Not her!
I agree with you Julie.
I think post did a lot of good and most definitely helped her fellow man
door closes. window opens. God is cool like that.
How I remember that like it was yesterday, yet it feels like a lifetime ago. So beautiful to look back at how God orchestrates all the details of our life. Can’t wait to really see the WHOLE picture when we’re in heaven with Him!
One of my favorite things is watching the Lord make beauty from ashes…He has done it over and over in our lives…and I’m so grateful. I do believe this is one of my favorite posts from you, my friend. Just beautiful…
Remembering with you…thanking Him with you for His protection…
Love you…
Wow, God must have an amazing plan for Stellan. Not like you didn’t already know that=), but seeing God’s protective hand over him already in his short life it truly awe inspiring.
This story was worth the wait. Thank you.
Remember, Romans 8:28 (The Message)
Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.
Blessings,
Wow. What a testimony to God’s protection! Such a good lesson that when things don’t always seem to be working out for the good, we can’t see what God is doing behind the scenes. Praise God you weren’t in the house when it caught fire. He is so good.
Can’t wait to hear the story of the new house!
~Kandi
http://kandilandblog.blogspot.com
wow – praise the Lord for His protection! i think it’s wonderful that you have ended up in such a stronger place than you found yourself last year, and all thanks to our Lord and Saviour. i know you said that you don’t believe in the prosperity message, but i actualli think what you believe is closer than you think to it – my knowledge, and what i believe, is that money can have such a negative effect on our lives, whether we have it or not, that the prosperity message deals with the issue of the heart. according to the bible, God is not a respector of persons, so what he does for one he will not withold from another. i think to believe christians should never have anything for themselves to enjoy is actually negative, and can be such a burden. there are so many scriptures that refer to us having earthly beauty to enjoy, to having abundantly, more than enough, till it overflows – spiritually, emotionally, and financially. but this is all relative, and is not to say that we should all keep money the god in our lives and aspire to being millionaires – on the contrary the prosperity message that i believe in encourages us to follow God’s direction in our lives and give where we are directed, and as much as we are directed, whilst enjoying the blessings He bestows upon us. praise the Lord that your blog is in the position to generate an income, and praise God for the many opportunities He creates for others, allowing freedom to flourish in finances, as we follow His voice and direction.
so pleased that you and your family are prospering, flourishing and enjoying life in your wonderful house, and as “the power of life and death are in the tongue”, let’s remain truthful in our words regarding life, and believe for health and wellness for all your children, and supernatural protection over your home Ps.91 x
Very beautiful post. Thanks for sharing.
Your story is inspiring…Rising from the ruins.
I really, really needed this reminder today. One of my favorite posts of yours. Thank you!
Would everyone please pray for the hundreds of families here in Minnesota who were affected by last night’s tornadoes? At least 3 people were killed, and the reports so far are saying that hundreds (250+?) of homes have literally been destroyed. A town about 100 miles from MckMama was the hardest hit (Wadena, MN).
Beautiful, inspiring post. Thank you!
Wow. Thank you for this, it is profound. GOD is profound, and I can relate in so many ways to your story. I’ve just experienced a dead end of sorts and was confused as heck, and even angry with God over it. But I’m on the other side now too, and in the place of understanding and accepting His divine wisdom, which far exceeds my own eyes. THank you again for your insights and reminders that it truly is all His.
Lisa
Wow. Thank you so much for sharing more details about that event! I read the whole story with bated breath and then realized I was covered in tears. God protected you all from so much there. It reminds me of my favorite verse, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11.
I know several others are saying they needed to hear this today and I am one of those. We moved into a rental house a month ago to wait while we built a house. The land we were going to purchase has fallen through and I have been devastated, numb, and having a pity party because I’m now “homeless” and wish we were just in our old house. This has reminded me to look at the truth: we put a for sale sign up in our yard as a fleece because we felt it was what the Lord wanted us to do. We had two people come look at it the next day. We sold it to the second looker. We are not homeless. We have a nice rental house and can stay here as long as we need to. God has a plan! He’ll reveal it in His time. You inspired hope in many today sharing this story. Thanks.
Tears. Sniff. Powerful, beautiful. To top it off my playlist was playing the Revelation Song. He is everything isnt he? Praise to him, who is our everything and reminds us of that daily. What a testimony you have been given to let others hear. What a blessing from God.
Just wanted to say that I really enjoyed this post. We are always protected but sometimes we don’t want to see the signs along the way. He protected you and your family in the greatest way possible, and didn’t give up on you after one delay. He kept delaying it until he knew you would be safe. It is amazing and wonderful, and I will be looking now for the signs in my life that are signs of his protection.
Thank you for this. Now if only He would send a bolt of lightening to erradicate my tumor and all the fears and anger that acompany it….
(sorry for my snarky comment b4 i was a tad….snarky)
I know that this comment won’t be posted, but I need to say it anyway.
This is utterly tasteless given the terrible storms that ripped through our state yesterday. People lost EVERYTHING… some even their lives. The house fire cost you nothing and did no harm whatsoever to you and your family. Have a little respect for those who are suffering that loss today.
Wow. What is utterly tasteless is this ignorant comment. I happen to live in a state that is flooded right now and tornadoes hit and devastate daily. But I would never tell someone that their amazing story–giving God all of the glory– that it isn’t worth writing or hearing. Praise God that He protected this family and orchestrated the timing. The point is this: things happen, including nature, decisions, etc. But God is there to comfort the grieving– not because He wishes things didn’t happen, but because He hates for His people to hurt. If anything, I would say this post had awesome timing: it showed God’s hand in this family’s grieving and His guidance in moving forward after this horrible situation.
I also live in MN and there was great devastation in our state last night. However I think you may be missing the point in this post. It speaks of beauty from ashes. Of the beauty that can come through extremely difficult times. Not JUST a house burning down. But a difficult journey of marital strife, financial worries and the near death experience of an ill child. The majority of comments to this post are by people that are walking through the “ashes” right now in their lives for various reasons. This post reminds them that there is and will be BEAUTY too…hang on! That message is as true for the local families that suffered devastation and loss last night as it was for the MckFamily, as it was for my family going through tremendous difficulties a year ago, and as it has probably been and likely will be again for you. This message is incredibly poignant given the loss that many suffered last night.
If you noticed she tweeted about the devastation in her state today. She’s not taking anything for granted. I can assure you that! I have experienced Beauty from Ashes myself literally.
She is giving God the glory here. Not herself. And I can assure you she probably will post about the devastation in her state because she is one who likes to help others and make a difference.
I can’t believe how people judge others for something innocent. How do you know that this wasn’t a scheduled post?
Thank you for this beautiful reminder of God’s Will.
Oh wow. What a beautifully written post.
And I don’t at all think it’s a coincidence that I was working on a post about learning some things about money and being taught some lessons by God, while checking my Google reader, reading this post from you and another post from Amy at “The Finer Things in Life” (check it out here: http://amysfinerthings.com/ten-percent) about how everything in our lives is God’s not just 10%. Some deep lessons I’m learning right now. And I thank you for sharing so openly.
And what a powerful message to share, openly and honestly, with your kids about what happened and kneeling and praying there in the ashes. How beautiful.
Oh thank you God for keeping them safe!!!!!
Beauty from ashes. Love it. You wrote what is in my heart. I have been thru a house fire. It was just 1 month before my son was born. We lost everything. I mean everything. We only had the clothes on our backs literally. We had left to go my OB appt, came home to ashes. It was a site to see the fireman sitting there on your steps amongst the smoke. We did live the country(lol)…no fire hydrants. They had to drive the water to the house. I saved the fire tape. God was watching over my family that day. He has given us strengh that we didn’t even know we had. I never really cried over losing the house and all of the memories(pictures). I always just laughed and said it was god will. Less is more. Ever since July 2004, me and my husband have never looked back. We live very frugile now and take NOTHING for granted. It can be gone it a nano second. Thank you for writing this post. IT hit home for me
God Bless
Thanks for a beautiful post. After losing our home in a fire in 2005, I realize still there is more left on this earth for us to do, and praying He continues to lead me and show me what those things are. HE makes all things new……….Rev. 21:5
Blessings today and always,
Kaye
Matthew 21:22
I read your blog daily but have not ever left a comment. This post left me teary and thankful for Gods mercy and grace!! Thank you for such an awesome story and wonderful reminder that our God is in complete control
Great post. Based on what has been going with my family the past 5 years, this gives me something to think about.
Back to the topic of dreams, I had a dream last night that you were calling me on my mobile phone and the caller ID said MckMama. I thought it was funny.
Ha! That’s hilarious!
Thank you for your beautifully written post. We’ve had to really rely on God lately & it is truly freeing to allow him to take complete control in our lives. My husband lost his job, we lost the house, had to move our family in with my inlaws (yikes!), and are expecting our surprise 3rd baby in 6 weeks. With no income, I’ve been worrying about how we’re going to pay for gas to doctor appointments, let alone our family expenses, but God keeps providing for us again & again. I’ve given it all to him & am amazed by how much at peace we feel. God has a plan for each & every one of us & it’s up to us to be patient enough to wait for it.
Just curious – is the Financial Study that you’re doing with your church by Dave Ramsey? I did his Financial Peace University last summer and thought it was great!
I love how God works!
Awesome post! Thank you for sharing! God’s timing is ALWAYS perfect, ALWAYS! It’s so hard to remember that at times, especially in times of turmoil. Our pastor preached a sermon on “God’s timing is ALWAYS perfect” a few days before my sister lost her triplet sons (in May 2008) and that was the only words I could mutter to her after losing her sons, her first born children. Thank you again for the reminder!
Beautiful. What a great reminder.
wow…this post is amazing…thankyou so much for sharing. ..been having difficult days lately & this/you have helped me !
It’s so hard sometimes to remember that somewhere, even in the darkest clouds – you really can find a silver lining if you look hard enough. HE may have to hit you over the head with it, but you will see it sooner or later!
Wonderful post, Jennifer! Reminded me to look again for my silver linings.
Love ya for all the inspiration!
Grannie
What a wonderful reminder. Thank you!
oooh goosebumps! Its times like those that remind me to not flip out when things in my life seem hectic but to be still so I can pay attention to what God is trying to tell me.
This is an amazing story of God’s grace, and how He spares us from the seemingly impossible situations.
I love it.
On a side note, I cannot wait to see what God uses Stellan for in this life. It must be pretty amazing, because the devil is trying to stop it with everything he has. Thanks to God for being such an awesome protector.
Wow, incredible post. That story is amazing. A true miracle in reality. God is faithful, and we must remember His greater plan no matter how hard it is. Wow, great post MckMama. Amazing!
Awesome post girl, I think it may be my favorite!
This same sort of thing is what finally brought me to where I needed to be with God.
While I was reading this the song “God is in Control” was playing in my head. Amazing story and perfect timing thank you for sharing.
*sniff* what a great post :’[ thanks for sharing so much with all of your friends
We all have a lot to learn from you (& from each other) and I love to hear how you and your family are learning and growing 
in tears… thanks for sharing! I am waiting for God’s house for us (it has a red door). I forget that God sees the whole picture and he sees the future! the waiting is hard!
Wow – what a huge testimony of our Lord!
very well written. Thank you for the reminder. i am due with our 3rd under 4 in 4 weeks, we live in an 800 sq. ft. bungalow, and i have not been content.
your post reminded me of Hebrews 13:5,6. Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,” so that we confidently say, “THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?”
and
1 Timothy 6:8. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.
AMEN! Thank you for that encouragement to me! Contentment. Exactly what I’ve been thinking so much about lately.
oh, I guess it’s not true contentment if it comes and goes… struggling these days with 4 kids (2-7) in a 2 bedroom trailer!! it sometimes seems like we will never have more space and the toys and clothes, etc are getting bigger and taking up more space!!
thanks for the verses!
Thank you, I needed this! Especially today.
Thank you for sharing your testimony of the power and protection that God has for us. We lost a foreclosed house we were trying to purchase, though in a different way. I believed it was perfect for us (it even had an abandoned photography studio!). I was angry for months, but I know God has a plan for me and my family, and we are in the place He wants us to be as long as we allow ourselves to be instruments in His hands.
Beautiful! My favorite post that you have ever written!
He never ceases to amaze me, the way things work out, and looking back in retrospect at times that seemed so senseless in the midst of it… He is just so mazing!
We too have had hard times. I have had 2 miscarriages. We lost our home, my husbands business. We almost lost each other thru drugs, alcohol and an affair. But God is good. We are now renting a home in town and my son can walk to school. I have 3 beautiful children and a wonderful stepdaughter. When people ask how I do it, I just tell them lots of prayers. I always keep in my mind that Jesus died for our sins and forgave us, and that is what I need to do as well, forgive. It has not been an easy road, but I wouldn’t change any of it if I could. Our marriage is stronger than ever, my family is together. We are not completely out of the storm (my husband is a plumber and there isn’t that much going on right now), but I give it all to God. It might not work out the way that we want it to, but it all works out in the end and that is all that matters. Someone sent me this saying a few months ago and I have it hanging from my computer….Sometimes God calms the storm…sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child.
What a beautiful (and true) quote. May God bless you and your family (as I’m sure he does), for your faith.
WOW, Jen, what a beautiful story. I love and hate how God has to continually remind us who we are and who He is. I wish I could ‘get it’ once and for all. And this is a good reminder to me at this moment to not hold on tightly to my stuff, but to hold it in open hands as an offering to God, should he choose to take it.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Wow. What an incredible story. If the previous closing dates had worked…it’s unimaginable.
I needed to hear this today. My MIL passed away in December of 2006, and we’ve had her house on the market ever since. It’s become a pretty big financial burden on us to maintain it plus our home. We’ve been praying and praying about it, and in the past week we’ve had more showings on it than we have in the past 3 years. We accepted an offer this morning. It’s all in His timing, not ours.
Thank God you weren’t living in the red house when it was struck but lighting. You have so much to be thankful for, Stellan’s health, financial stability, a happy, healthy family, your marriage, your home. Aaahhh the silver lining. Thanks for sharing this story with us.
What a great post! I needed that today!
I am simply overwhelmed by your post. God is and always has been in control, once we realize it we are so much better off. His mercy and grace is amazing. Thank you for this reminder.
i am almost speechless. i remember when you told us about the fire, and how i was trying to tell my husband and how i couldn’t do anything but cry. this is in my opinion one of the best posts i’ve read from you. god is so awesome, and truly does make beauty from ashes, just as he promises. and he has an awesome plan for us, that so often is so much better than we could ever fathom. thanks for the reminder mckmama that he loves and cares for us so much!
southern love and prayers from alabama!
What a wonderful post. Very peaceful & flowing. God’s grace is an awesome thing. His timing is impeccable!
Speechless from the beauty behind this. You can never underestimate the power and wonders of God.
Bless you and yours.
Thanks Jennifer for such a touching post! As I am entering upon adulthood, starting my first career in the midst of student loans kicking in I am so fearful of being short of money. It’s on my mind all the time! God is working in me and how I think about money, but it’s a daily challenge. Your post couldn’t have changed my mindset better today. It’s just what I needed to read! Have a wonderful day.
Amazing…God is simply stunning in His ways. Kim
This couldn’t have come at a better time for me. Thank you for the encouragement! We are moving next week and have so many balls up in the air that I’ve been stressed and *ugly*. Thank you for the reminders–He’s got the details and he owns it all!
http://www.parkertrio.com/media.php?mode=video&id=3
You HAVE to watch this song. This is The Parker Trio. They came to our town and recorded a DVD. Just a few short months later Warren Parker, husband of Shannan Parker (one of the singers) was killed by a drunk driver.
It’s called Beauty from Ashes and it made me think of you. http://www.parkertrio.com/
Shannan has an awesome blog and is a real inspiration.
I’m glad you’re enjoying the new house.
Wow! Thanks for sharing. I am inspired to trust more fully in God’s plan for my life. Thanks again!
Kerry
A wonderful post and a beautiful outcome…I know that you love the new house! Everything does happen for a reason, even if we are clueless at the time!
“Out of the ashes, beauty will rise. And we will dance among the ruins. We will see it with our own eyes. Out of these ashes, beauty will rise.” Steven Curtis Chapman. If you haven’t heard this song, go buy it now! A great testament that it IS all His.
Wow…. WOW…. *Thank you* for writing this! God leaves me speechless.
Thank you for sharing. so powerful. moved me to tears.
Thank you for that beautiful reminder. My family is also facing some hard times financially and this post reminded me that it is out of our control. God has a bigger plan for all of us and we need to remember that it will all work out in the end if we put our faith in Him. God Bless!
Chills…wow…amazing story!
I loved this post. Our home is on the market and we are FRUSTRATED that it hasn’t sold. This post has reminded me to slow down, take a deep breath and remember that God has a plan for my family. In God’s time… Thanks MckMama for the reminder.
Wow… just goes to show that God did indeed look after your family when you think things were falling apart! A very good read/encouragement. Our God is still God! Bless you McMama!
I really enjoyed this post. Thanks so much for sharing and for being so honest.
Sorry for your loss, but what a great story! Thank you for sharing!
if you go to facebook, there are pictures of our trip up…….:)
beautiful! I often tell myself, God will provide over and over, and He has never let me down. Sometimes it wasn’t what I would have wanted or planned, but He truly never lets us down.
Wow….amazing.