I've experienced a myriad of emotions over the past week. I hurt because part of our family is hurting and am excited because God is going about his business of bringing all things into his glorious light. Both a beautiful and painful process. This morning however, I was proud of the God who calls us his own. Can you say that about God? I am proud to be one of his kids...and watch him go about his work. This morning Mike, Chloe, Suz and I had the wonderful joy of being with Monica as she had JohnPaul dedicated. She invited us to go and be a part of this special day but was unsure if any of us would want to go to "institutional church". (Honestly, I felt privileged to be invited to such a special event) Well, if the choice was doing that or being with an intimate family of faith who follow Jesus together, I think you know what my choice would be. However, in going to "institutional church" we were able to be with her and her children and celebrate the God of the universe who holds and guides them. So today, we chose the "institution" not for its sake but for the sake of being with a friend in a very important life moment. Not only that, but Monica got up and prayed this amazing prayer over her family and all I can say is I was proud. Proud of Jesus in her.....proud of God calling her....humbled to be allowed to know her life and her journey....and the crazy thing is we have only known her for a few weeks. Like most of the people in our community...they are friends of friends of friends. So I've know of Monica for months but only recently been blessed by knowing her personally. (So Monica, If you are reading this thanks for letting us into your life. We are deeply blessed!)

I am thankful that in the story of our people.. there is great sin and even greater redemption. Nothing takes God by surprise and nothing is to difficult or painful that Jesus can't lead us through it. Hold on deeply to that my dear friends. Jesus will never stir you wrong.