“He [God] said, ‘You’re my son, today’s your birthday, what do you want?” Psalm 2.7
Christmas is past; did you get what you wanted? My special is leaving a bittersweet taste in my mouth right now.
You know that I am part of a two continent family. My three special girls are on one side of the Atlantic, I am in our new “home-town” opposite. My present was the three of them all for myself, two weeks at that! Fantastic is a relevant word if I had to describe the past 14 days. As with some good things, there is an end. The ever-present call of school and jobs took them back.
It happened to me… The flood of emotions: confident about the future but emotionally torn at the same time. Looking forward to seeking them soon, regretting that they had to leave at all. Reveling in the rediscovered quietness of the apartment, missing their chatter more than I ever imagined possible. Relaxing in the enveloping warmth of the radiators; finding the ice growing in a heart softened by being with those who share a love for and with you.
It is easy to be negative, but God spoke.
“I have been here, remember I stayed when my son left. Today’s a birthday so I am giving you a few gifts.”
“What gifts?” I wondered aloud.
“The opportunity to experience love and the temporary absence of being together. The gift of being a servant; that is how one can truly experience love. The gift of silence; to remember the when you see me at work. The gift of longing; because you now have a glimpse of how much I miss you. The gift of faith; knowing you will be together again and are always walking together in love.”
“Stop!” I cried. “It hurts too much.”
“I know. I feel it to. Come, rest, let me be her arms and tears.”
Thanks God. Thanks for the gifts that hurt because I can feel your presence wiping the tears. Thanks for the gifts that bring faith in love.
