Savoring the “Lasts”

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.   Philippians 1:3-6

This weekend, my husband and I will be savoring one of the many "lasts" with our daughter.  As a senior in high school we are nearing the completion of her journey through childhood and the end of a season in her life.  Her graduation is less than three months away where we will see come to fruition many of the hopes and dreams we have had for her in the last seventeen years.  Of course, we have many more for her future but for now I want to enjoy this season of her life. 

Watching her step outside her comfort zone and really put herself on the line to reach her goals has been difficult as a parent.  I have wanted to protect her from hurt when things didn't go the way she wanted however the lessons she learned by doing so will be with her for a lifetime. She will be competing for the last time as a member of the high school academic team.  Participating in academic competitions since the fourth grade, she has enjoyed the challenge and thrill of quick recall and individual testing.  But this is just one of those moments that we will be treasuring in the next few weeks:  her last school play, her last dance, her last day of school all are on the horizon.

As I look back over her years of primary and secondary education I remember the times that brought joy as well as pain.  As we were in the midst of those moments I know I did not always take the opportunity presented to enjoy my daughter as I should have.  I sometimes overreacted to situations or maybe did not respond adequately with enough enthusiasm.  However, I know in my heart that I have done my best to teach her, to support her, to encourage her to reach out and not be afraid of failure.  I have tried to show her that although we do not always succeed, sometimes what we learn from the experience is what was needed and worth the sacrifice.

I do thank God every time I remember her.  I do always pray for her and I am thankful that she is a child of God.  I am also confident that God is not done with her yet and he will carry His work on to completion.  I have faith that although this season of her life may be drawing to a close, I have so much more to look forward to with her.  I am going to treasure these moments and store them up in my heart, but I will not be sad.  I will rejoice for what is to come.  For each new day with her, and for her as she steps into the next phase of her life and continues the journey to find who she is to become.

Lord Jesus, I thank you today that you blessed me with this beautiful child.  You have given these years to nurture and teach her.  I am thankful for the responsibility that you gave me and the trust that entails.  I have faith that you will walk with her in this new and exciting time in her life.  I am confident you will guide her choices and protect her young heart and mind.  Thank you remaining with us!