His Words for When You’re Grieving
This week, I heard the news that a friend had lost her husband of only a year to a tragic, almost impossible-sounding accident. I don't know her well, but I do know that this relationship was one that had helped to restore some of her broken places, one of those being the deep scar left from the senseless loss of her son, some years ago. My mind can't begin to grasp the depth of her pain, and she's been heavy on my heart. The good news is that she is not alone in her grief, and neither are we. In the deepest valleys of despair, He is there. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. ~ Psalm 34:18 ESV He will wipe away every tear from their...
His Eyes
We sat in what was possibly the loveliest, and most romantic, courtyard fine dining atmosphere I've ever experienced. Surrounded by tall walls of climbing vines, accented with hanging vintage lanterns, and set to life by literally hundreds of real candles, the space was filled with tables for two, and four, encouraging intimate conversation. We were originally set to meet some long-time friends whom we hadn't seen in a quite a while. Unfortunately, they had a last minute emergency which left us on our own. We let our table for four go, and were seated at one of the two-tops, presented with this week's prix fixe menu and a lovely wine list. After I had made my selections, I glanced...
What’s in a Name?
We're enjoying some wonderful time on our vacation. We needed the time away desperately, and it's proving to have its magical, restorative properties like it always does. Last night, we had a lovely dinner here at our hotel. After being seated next to a large plate glass window, overlooking the flickering outdoor fireplace on the other side, and the mountains and sunset beyond, we settled in and were greeted by a darling young woman who introduced herself as Caitlin. Kevin said, "I would bet that you're in your mid- to late-twenties, based on your name. My guess is 25." Surprised, she said, "Yes! I actually just turned 26 on December 31st! But, you know, my name wasn't going to be...
At the Top
This morning, I walked out of my bedroom and gazed out the back windows, as I always do. It was pretty quiet out there. Not a lot of movement. But just as I was turning to go into the kitchen, I noticed the lone bird at the very top of the tallest tree. Oddly, it made me think of the series West Wing. (I know. What can I say? My brain, she works a little differently.) I know I've mentioned it before, but we are big fans of the show, having watched it in its entirety when it originally aired, and several times since then. We recently wrapped it up yet again. The seat in the Oval is a very lonely place. Far above the rest of the country - the world - in power, its occupant is often...
His Words for When Life Throws You a Curve Ball
After receiving several messages regarding yesterday's post, I thought some further words on the topic would be prudent. His words, of course, instead of mine. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. ~ Hebrews 13:8 TLB For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven... ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV For I’m going to do a brand-new thing. See, I have already begun! Don’t you see it? I will make a road through the wilderness of the world for my people to go home, and create rivers for them in the desert! ~ Isaiah 43:19 TLB Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with...