Empty

Dear friend,

The trip was interesting. I've noticed they do things quite different over in Europe. The manger is, well, empty. And will be until Christmas, I'm told. We get so used to the perfect picture-- the Hallmark expression We've been sold on a picture that is shiny and clean, complete with the baby Jesus, already appeared-- that we don't understand the waiting.

But you do. You've been waiting for him to be be better. You've been waiting for her to be healed. You've been waiting for them to come home. You've been waiting for a chance for rest. Peace seem like a forgotten prayer. Wholeness seems like a distant dream. And still, every day, you show up.

For what it's worth. I see you. Your faithfulness will not be forgotten. And what's more, so much more, is that He sees you, too. And He is here. And his kingdom will come. How? Not sure. When? No idea. But faith isn't a story of how tightly we hold on. It's a story of the God who holds onto us. No matter what. Even now. Even as you still wait.

Can I wait with you? For awhile? Because I love you. And the gift of God is definitely coming. Even if it hasn't come yet.

thus spake

me.