The Hope of Glory

Tears are rolling before I even begin to write this one.

It's been a while, a very dark while.

I've been quiet, reaching and aching for God, who has seemed so silent.

So quick to forget that even in the silence, He is moving.

Around me, I watch precious little ones fighting the terrors of Hell within their minds, in their dreams, in their waking hours.

Trauma knows so little peace, yet so much fear and so many horrific lies. 

I wish I could tell you I've fought boldly before the throne of Grace with confidence, but I haven't.

I want to tell you of my doubts, my faithlessness, the rapids of fear that have paralyzed me...but not today.

Because today, I've been pondering...His majestic faithfulness against the backdrop of my soul's shadows.

Last year Christmas began to look different for us. Yes, there's the kids to shop for and the parties to attend, but around Thanksgiving of last year, people began calling, asking us to match them with families...families fighting to conquer the mountains of despair and shame.

We were humbled to see God work, but this year, you guys, there aren't words. 

Daily gift cards, food, groceries, diapers and donations have flooded our front porch. 

Glimpse into my life these last weeks, and you'll see...

A grandma, mother to three of her young grandchildren, $400 past due on her power bill, and a man, chasing after His Savior, calling to anonymously meet the need.

A mother reunified with her large tribe, and a small group standing in the gap, providing her with multiple bunk beds, mattresses, and groceries.

A mother laid off of her job with DHR intervention looming, and several businessmen intervening to provide her with work.

A new baby, showered with gifts, as her young mother chooses life and hope against the whispers of lies.

A father counting the days until his daughter lives with him again, as a church storms his home to make her room ready.

This is the Gospel in action. 

I want you to see it because I am so unworthy of witnessing the glory on their faces, hope where there has been no hope, destruction of shame cast against new found intention and purpose as they realize they are not alone.

I haven't been able to write...only ponder and consider Mary as she treasured and contemplated her very God coming to earth to shatter the sin reaching to hold her hostage.

No, it hasn't been exactly the miracle of God humbling himself to be born in human form.

But isn't a miracle all the same?

It's that very same God, taking life, making Himself known through you.

It is your Savior, Christ, in you...your Hope of Glory, our Hope of Glory...their Hope of Glory.

Because of Jesus~