When I was a little girl, I used to wish for a name that ended with the long sound of e. I’m not sure where the idea came from that vowels would affect my state of contentment. But, being a sensible child, I just knew life would be more fun as Cindy or Susie.
Eventually, I learned that letter sounds are not life-changing. And I learned about a name that is— Jesus. I learned stories of his miracles— astonishing demonstrations of his power, like giving sight to the blind, bringing people back to life, and walking on water.
Through the years, I’ve sometimes prayed for miracles. And I’ve wondered if those prayers have been heard because I haven’t seen wonders like the Bible describes— jaw-dropping happenings like feeding 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish.
But lately I’ve been thinking about how Jesus also built a fire on a beach and cooked a breakfast of fish for his friends.
And I ask myself which of those events is more amazing? If I could put myself into one of the stories, which one would I choose? In the first, the people were told to sit in groups of fifty or one-hundred so food could be passed out by Jesus’ helpers. In the second, Jesus invited his friends to sit with him around a warm fire while he prepared a meal for them to share. Was one more of a miracle than the other?
One day, we’ll all witness Jesus’ power on an unimaginably grand scale. In the meantime, every day I can experience the miracle of his presence because of another of his life-changing names—Emmanuel—God is with us.
I hadn’t thought about that desire for a long-e name for many years until it came up in a conversation with my six-year-old grandson. After hearing about it, he was silent for a moment, deep in thought. Suddenly, with great excitement, he said, “Mimi; now you do have one of those names!”
He was right. And into that ordinary day came a fireside miracle— assurance that my heart is heard by the one who formed it. Surely, he smiled as he looked down through the years and thought of a certain little boy. A boy who would one day deliver the news that my long ago wish had been granted because of the name he calls me—Mimi.
I was right, too—life as Mimi really is more fun.
When we don’t see him walking on water, may we draw close to the fire he has built on the shore.
And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 1 John 5:14
Great story! I think sitting with Jesus around a fire would be amazing. A chance to talk to Him I’m an intimate group and soak up all that love, grace and wisdom would be soul soothing.
So glad you have a long e name! Being a Mimi, a Grammy or a Lolly is an honor.
Keep writing!
Sara
Thanks, Sara! I love the idea of sitting around a fire with Jesus, too. One day, I bet we will! And you’re right, having a grandma name is the best!
I love this Martha! I’m so glad I found your site. I’m sure being a Mini is better than you ever dreamed! God’s timing is perfect!
Yes, it is! I’m so glad to know you’re a fellow writer. I’m looking forward to reading more on your website! 🙂
I LOVE this–so good!
Thank you, John, for reading and taking the time to comment! I hope you and your sweet family are doing well!
Martha,
As always, your word resonate with me. Your grandson is a wise little boy. Sometimes we don’t recognize God’s answers to our prayers. Keep sitting by the fire and listening to His voice.
Kind regards,
Deanna Beaver
Martha,
As always, your word resonate with me. Your grandson is a wise little boy. Sometimes we don’t recognize God’s answers to our prayers. Keep sitting by the fire and listening to His voice.
Kind regards,
Deanna Beaver
Thank you, Deanna! I’m so thankful God brought you into my life!
I am equally thankful for you, sweet friend! You are such an encourager to me.
Love this! Jesus building the fire is one of my favorite passages! ❤️
Thank you, Jan! It’s one of my favorites, too!
Great job “Mimi”! As I read this I reflected back on many times I’ve sat around a fire, or in a kitchen or at a ball field with you through the years and could feel Gods presence shining through you! You were such a great influence and inspiration in my life! Keep writing! Love and miss you!
Thank you, Stacy! I feel the very same way about you!!!
I love it, Martha! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Dorothy, for taking time to read and comment. So thankful for your friendship!