Blessings

by Macy Johnson

“The Lord bless you and keep you.”

(Exodus 6:24 NIV)

 

I waited patiently to lay down my last tile and win the hand during the weekly game of Mexican Train Dominoes at the Methodist church. Just a few more players’ turns and I could play my last piece. Then Tom, seated next to me on my right, stole my play and blocked me from winning!

 

“Tom,” I said, “You did it again!” We all laughed. I liked to play on the tiles Tom played – we were a team. He usually helped me, but this time he did not.

 

After his light-hearted chuckle, Tom looked up as someone walked through the Fellowship Hall. He immediately called out their name and said, “Be blessed today and this week!” Tom was a living, loving, blessing machine.

 

At Tom’s funeral, his pastor described him as “Two Talent Tom” from Jesus’ parable of the talents found in Matthew chapter twenty-five. The minister explained Tom had just enough, not too many or too few blessings to pass on to others. I am certain Tom was welcomed into Jesus’ arms and heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

 

Tom was blessed to be a blessing. I want to be like him. I want to be like Jesus, always ready to bless and love everyone around me well.

 

“The Lord make His face shine upon you

and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn His face toward you

and give you peace.”

(Exodus 6:25-26 NIV)

 

My dear friend, Tom, penned these words at the end of every email he sent to me, “God’s Blessings Always to You, Jeff, and Your Families. Enjoy and be Happy!!!”

 

I will heed Tom’s advice and accept God’s amazing grace and enjoy His gift of life as I share it with others. I hope you will, too!