Today is June’s birthday. Her January 2 birthday and my December 13 birthday often get buried in holiday hoopla, and this year was no exception, especially since mine was less than a week after June’s fall. We were able to celebrate both birthdays yesterday with three of our four adult children. (David had been here from Atlanta with his wife, Cheryl, and three boisterous boys, but they left on December 26.) Our daughter, Melody, arrived from the Cayman Islands (where she teaches in an international school) on December 28.

(at the table) Mark’s daughter, Kesley, Matt, Melody, June, Bob, Mark

Here’s how she told it as she was departing:

Today I’m traveling to Colorado to visit my parents, and two of my three brothers. (Unfortunately, I just missed my brother David and family.) My mom had a bad fall a couple weeks ago and broke some bones in her pelvis. She was in a lot of pain, and I felt so helpless being so far away. At Cayman National Choir rehearsal the day after mom’s fall, I mentioned her to my choir. There’s this piece that always reminds me of mom, and I felt quite emotional while they were singing it.

Long story short, one of my dear choir members felt compelled to give me a very special Christmas present! He bought my ticket to go and visit my parents!

I’m still shocked that this dear person would give so generous a gift!

This trip was not in our budget, but God wanted me to be able to go, and He provided a way! Angels do walk among us, dear friends! – Melody Gifford, Facebook, December 28, 2024

Well told, Melody. Another Christmas miracle.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. (James 1.17, ESV)