Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Pity Party Canceled


The following poem, written almost ten years ago, is a repost of my very first blog entry back in 2008. I wish I could tell you that I never had another such party, but that wouldn't be the truth . . .

I'm having a pity party -
Just me, myself, and I.
We’ll rehash all the hurts and pains,
Each punctuated by “Why?”

What, Lord? Are you invited?
Did my invitations include Your name?
No, Lord, I didn’t include You;
The party wouldn’t be the same.

For if I took just one look
At the nail prints in Your hands,
I’d be reminded of what You endured
And forget my party plans.

And then I’d look into Your loving eyes
And know that You suffered for me.
I’d know that it’s Your power I need –
Not pity – to set me free.

On second thought, Lord,
Would you come in and take a chair?
Forgive me of my selfish plans,
And lift me from the pit of care.

I’ll get out my very best cup, Lord,
And ask You to fill it to overflow
With Your power, Your Spirit, Your grace -
Then I’ll drink and in Your strength go.
~G. Thaxton - 2001~


I'm so thankful that God is patient and loving and understands each of the emotions and phases of my life - and yours! Because He became flesh and dwelt among us, He is able to feel every pain and disappointment and raw emotion that we feel. However, He reminds us to get our eyes off our problems and look to Him, the author and finisher of our faith.

Reuben Welch says it this way: Jesus entrance into our human situation was not a temporary visit but a permanent involvement! The God of the Universe involved in every detail of my life - on this day in 2011 and for the long haul! I like that! And if I remember that, there'll be no need to waste my time and energy having pity parties.

Fill my cup, Lord, I lift it up, Lord . . .

EDIT 1-13: Oops! Looking back at my blog, I realized that this poem was not the first post but one of several that I posted the first day of blogging - in Feb. of 2009.

14 comments:

Southern Lady said...

What a beautiful poem, Glenda! You have such a way with words. Your post just reminded me of my motto for 2011..."keeping my eyes on Jesus." It never ceases to amaze me at how small my problems become when my focus is on Him. No pity party here today! As for tomorrow...I have to take it one day at a time. Carla

Dorothy said...

Hi Glenda,
Thanks for another beautiful post to remind us of what's really important in this life. That's a wonderful poem!

Anonymous said...

Hello Glenda, Beautiful poem and post. Always so inspiring to visit with you here.

S. Etole said...

some invitations are best to turn down ...

Mrs. M said...

I often pray that the Lord will fill me to overflowing. That my cup will be full and the saucer flooded. That way I know that others can lap from the saucer and I'll still be okay. It's a word picture that brings me great comfort.

The poem is so lovely. So meaningful. Thanks for sharing with those of us that never saw it the first time.

Unknown said...

Such a good poem to remind us that we can become so full of ourselves that we need to realize what an incredible price Christ paid for us. No room for self pity there!!!

Beth said...

Timely post for me(again)--I've been trying not to have a pity party. I like the way you ended it---you're so right.
I enjoyed the pictures of the cardinal in your previous post. I hope you're feeling better.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Beautiful poem, Glenda... Thanks for sharing.

I have my share of Pity Parties ---and need to keep that poem in front of me when I think about having one.

Hugs,
Betsy

Nancy said...

I LOVE this!! I think you should share it in church Sunday morning. SO good!!

Rose said...

This whole blog is amazing!! So precious and so beautiful. You are so talented and I thank God that you are using it to glorify Him and encourage fellow believers.
Rose Long

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

Yes what a beautiful poem! No pity party now.
kim

Vickey said...

Beautiful poem. You have such a gift of words. I have had a lot of pity parties. I forget too often how full my cup really is.

Dawn said...

I am always in awe of those who can write poetry - you and my blog friend Linda are masters.

I read that you've had the flu - hope you're better now!

Another blog friends did a post one time about "pity parties." She said she sets a timer, allows herself to feel sorry for herself for that length of time, then goes on with her life. I like that!

Karin said...

A lovely poem - we've shared the same thoughts!