Selfless Love

As followers of Christ, we're called to love. I've come to define love in three different stages, or ways. One of them is a selfless, giving love.

This action is one that humbles one's self. That considers others higher. A love that must be sustained from God. 

Ben and Rebecca Clark, Stella and Micah.

Last autumn/winter season I had the wonderful opportunity to be a live-in nanny with the Clark family. I've been meaning to write a homage to them since I left at the end of March. They have no idea I'm writing this :)

This family operates in a selfless love. If you have the chance to go to the small group that they host in Lindale, see Benjamin Clark in concert, or bump into this joyful family at the Vineyard Church in Tyler....I guarantee your life will be blessed.

Here's a bit about each of the family members.

Ben: 

The husband and father of this family is a singer/songwriter. He has such a heart to love Jesus and love the church. He has a serving heart and leads his family in this, joyfully and thankfully. The link to his website is above, or you can like his page on facebook and get updates on his music ministry. Ben ended up being a big brother to me. He teased me about boys and helped me with my car....and maybe sometimes purposefully pushed my buttons with my pet peeves. He set a great standard in loving his wife even after 8 years of marriage.

Rebecca: 

She is not only the wife and mother, but also works professionally as a physical therapist. She is so so kind, with such a loving and gentle heart. Even as I write this, I tear up missing my "roommie." Rebecca is a very quiet and reserved person when you first meet her. Once she jokingly credited her husband's outgoing personality for being the only reason she knows people at church. That being said, you may not know her very well...but if you ever get the chance to get in her inner circle, do not take it for granted. She is a lovely lady that strives for every action and word to show Christ's love and have an eternal impact. Rebecca is exceedingly patient with even her pre-schooler son, even when she was exhausted. The love she showed with his tantrums challenged me. She is flexible and understanding. Joyful and delightful.  

Micah: 

He will be four soon. Micah is one of the smartest little boys I've gotten the opportunity to care for. He is so loving, almost always wanting to be in physical contact with you. Diffusing his cries were simple with some tender hugs. Stretching his brain was harder since he could memorize beats, lyrics, phone numbers, and addresses simply. I miss dancing with him in the morning and taking walks with him as we talk about strangers, being friendly, and safety. 

Stella: 

Stella Rose is not yet one. Avery determined infant, as soon as she was crawling...she would pull herself up to stand on things. She started walking before I left...I was surprised at how much she grew up in the short time I was there. She is very curious and happy. Then again, all of the Clarks are very joyful. In the month I've been gone, Stella has grown up more. I can't wait to see the lady she grows into being.

It would be silly to write out the small (and sometimes VERY LARGE) acts of kindness I saw throughout the half a year I was with them...because they weren't meant to be public.

I moved in at the beginning of October and stayed 6 months with them. I was encouraged to "live my best life now" ;-). I was supported when the Lord called me away. Most importantly, I learned how to live life selflessly by watching them and taking mental notes. I saw the Clarks in the good and bad, the rough and the smooth, the heartbreak and joy. Life brings us both, it's up to you which you'll dwell on.

I hope you have people in your life that you can look up to. Additionally, my friend I pray that you are a shining example of Christ's love. It's not of your power you can love, but simply of an overflow of God's power working through your life.

blessings <3

tabitha.ariel.