"What's In A Number?"

Eight is a wonderful number signifying new beginnings. Time after time my Lord allows me to experience a new beginning. He erases pain and encourages my heart, mind and spirit: “Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert. The beast of the field will honor Me, The jackals and the ostriches, Because I give waters in the wilderness And rivers in the desert, To give drink to My people, My chosen. This people I have formed for Myself; They shall declare My praise (Isaiah 43:18-20).

Perhaps you recall the television series, Eight Is Enough. The title was based on a book about the Bradford family that had, you guessed it... EIGHT children and said that's enough! I used to enjoy that show though it was impossible to envision actually living under the same roof with that many people! What I most admired about the show was that in the end love always outweighed the drama. 

This makes me think about my Lord who puts up with my drama and loves me in spite of it. Many times I don't say or do it just right, but He keeps on working with me. Sometimes I allow my flesh to get in the way but He doesn't "kick me out." He's the God of a second chance who keeps on loving me. Giving brand new mercies each day, He leads or hides me as necessary. Lovingly He renews, rebuilds, rejuvenates, reignites, and releases blessings so that I can be a blessing. Aren't you super-glad that the pendulum periodically swings back to number eight?! I know I am.

---