Why Tempered?

I remember the day that the prayer flowed over my lips, during a morning worship service... "Temper Me, Lord. Temper Me." What exactly was I asking for?

Have you ever done that? Let a prayer escape only to leave you in wonder? I know I have... many times before, and this would be no different. I knew the moment I heard my voice utter those words, that a season of tempering would be on it's way soon enough.

I looked it up today. It seems that "tempering" is a process used to toughen up metal after it's hardened. I looked up the difference, and toughness speaks to the metal's ability to absorb energy, change shape, without fracturing. It increases the metal's malleability and decreases brittleness. I don't have to be a metallurgy expert to see the spiritual implications in that.

You see, I ran into this blog several months ago, and it seemed as though that momma of six was speaking right to me, that EVERY blog was for me. You see, she spends her life for her children, and pours out the heart of God, teaching all who will listen the art of giving thanks. Ah, the thankful life... eucharisteo.

Since then, the challenge to live thankful has stayed with me, as I attempted to begin counting the gifts of grace I found in everyday life, in what would otherwise seem mundane. And, while I cannot say that it has made me perfect, (not even close...) I can say that it has given me confidence concerning my Father, and the courage to live slowly in this very fast paced world. To quote her, "Life IS NOT an Emergency. It's a GIFT."

So... this year, I have set out to count 1,000 gifts, (I am only one of MANY MANY individuals who have joined in the thankful chorus) and it is my hope that any who read will be encouraged by the words and treasures I share within these pages.