Grace

Well, this week there have been a few times where I have come face to face with my own silliness and sinfulness. Whether it be putting my foot in my mouth for the hundredth time, or worring about something I have no control over, or reading into things instead of enjoying them, or failing to love someone well, I have realized a precious gift in response: laughter. Not laughter that ignors the seriousness of these things, or pretends that they didn't happen, but laughter that embraces the grace that I have been offered through Jesus christ. Jesus death and resurection has offered me so much, but one of the things that amazes me is the ability to embrace and live life fully and freely. Free from guilt or shame; able to laugh at myself and share my faults with others. Knowing that I am covered by Christ's sacrifice on my behalf. I have nothing to fear; not because I am great, because the Lord knows that on my own I am nothing, but because nothing can defeat Christ in me. I have complete confidence that christ can defeat all that comes against me, even aspects of myself at times. This reality leaves me smiling, and yes, laughing at times; stuned by the undeserved priviledge of enjoying Christ's grace. There is no greater gift, and there is no greater joy than that that comes from learning to recieve it daily. I am in love beyond what I can express with the one who loves me beyond what I deserve.

So tonight I got the answer to my earlier post about depressing movies: "Rat Race". After I published my last post my older brother and sister-in-law asked me if I had seen "Rat Race". When I said no, my brother declared that I was not alowd to graduate until I had seen this movie. After this conversation I left and went home and came back the next week unsuspecting. When i walked in however, there were balloons everwhere and a big sign that said "Thank You". The girls ran up all excited and Ryan and Dana explained that tonight was going to be Ashley night! Can you believe that? I have never had my own night before. I was already so excited, but the surprises kept coming. They brought out presents and gave me ice cream, soda, Krunchers, and the one movie that has been missing from my film collection: "On the Waterfront". They then told me that we were having tomato rice soup and grilled cheese for dinner and wonderful pastries for desert! My goodness it was amazing! All of my favorites in one night! Finally though, they told me that we were watching this crazy movie so that I can proceed to graduation. I dont know what to say about the movie other than that it was hystarical and we laughed so hard that we cried! This was of course the perfect anecdote to my earlier movie dilema and I am so greatful. But in the end funny movies are wonderful but family is priceless. I was so blessed by their love and all that they did to encourage me and it was a smashing success. I was able to enjoy a good movie with good company and good food! Now that is how to spend a thursday night. Thanks guys!