Life has everything. The evening came with a mix of life’s best. First came dinner with friends an time to revel in the two new lives that make up their family. Then I had the good fortune to meet several new people who are the essence of what makes life interesting. The conversations that went on into the night told me that we will yet meet again, sometime, someplace.
The travel, long extended days, finally caught up with me. The morning and day were far more difficult than I could have imagined. I was physically and mentally exhausted. There was nothing left in me to give. My body cried out for sleep. I gave it that and more, but it did not seem to be enough. The evening events – special thank-offerings for the twins and a work party were each special in their own way, yet it almost seemed like I was a visitor in my own body.
In moments like this, “singing light songs to the heavyhearted is like pouring salt in their wounds.” (Proverbs 25.20) The body cries out for rest and home; nothing else will suffice.
I sit in the evening light reflecting on the past ten days of travel. So many special events have occurred and I treasure the fact that I was able to be a part of so many of them. Friendships are deeper and exist because of the time yet my heart longed for something that only comes with family and time together.
You and I carry a thirst to know our God. We may not know what name to use. The metaphors of our journeys give God different names yet we thirst and long for something that only the true God can give. Even the words we use fail to describe the mystery we seek. What does grace mean in life. Can one know unconditional acceptance? Do you receive mercy?
When I walk into the arms of my three girls I know all this is possible and more. God offers life, real life. Everything starts with our “yes”.
