where are you, dear daughter?

It was only a year ago, but it seems like forever since I last saw you. I took this picture of you right before I left to return to Washington in April, 2008. Why didn't I see the fear in you when I was there? Why didn't I sense you were about to do the unimaginable and follow in my footsteps? I know, only too well, the pain you are feeling. I know, only too well, the fear that has gripped you. Fear is a powerful emotion that wants only to keep us paralyzed by its strangling grip. Oh, daughter, how I long to hold you in my arms like I did when you were little...like you are holding Noah, Emma and Kaylee in this picture. I long to tell you that, no matter what, I will always love you...that, no matter what, I forgive you...that, no matter what, Jesus is right there with you...waiting for you to turn around...

"Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions; according to Your mercy, remember me, for Your goodness' sake, O' Lord." Psalm 25:7 NKJV

Inside-out Hug

The sun is out; the birds are singing and I should be rejoicing in the fact that spring has finally arrived to the Pacific Northwest. Yet, here I am, still in my pj's and struggling to put on a happy face. How can I have a happy face, when my heart is breaking inside? I know the answer to this question...it is Jesus. He is the answer to every question under the sun. And as I write these words, I feel His warmth and love flow over me like a hug from the inside-out. He lets me know He is in control and I need to allow Him to shoulder my burdens and my heartache...for they are HIS burdens and HIS heartache. Oh, what a gracious, loving God we serve...

"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit." Psalm 34:18 NKJV