a sacred exchange of story & soul

"a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." - isaiah 61:3

Just a year ago, I was barely able to get up off my couch, let alone step into my son’s Kindergarten classroom. I was in the thick of a health crisis that left me incapacitated for months on end. But the other day, I was there. In his classroom. Looking into the eyes of 20 precious 1st graders as I read a story to them. With my son as my proud, picture-showing assistant.

The story is a cute one about a siamese cat whose imagination transforms him into an invincible, sword-fighting chihuahua. And oh, how I can relate to little Skippyjon Jones, my soul wanting to be something I am not. Often. And missing the splendor of the distinctive ways that God created me in His glorious image. (But that’s another post.)

That afternoon with the children, my heart soared simply to be in their presence, gifting them with the treasure of a story. My imagination walking side-by-side with theirs as we journeyed together to a destination “two bones shy of the end of the world” to come up with a plan to save the world. (Or at least save los chimichangos from the bobble-ito in la casa perrito!)

Such a gift to look into the eyes of these precious souls, theirs looking back at mine. To connect with their hearts and minds. And to learn much about each of them simply by the individual expressions on each face as they listened.

One little girl wore an intent look that reminded me so much of me. Another one brushed her long hair. On the other side of the room, a couple of buddies snuck in a whisper.Each instance, a grand celebration of divine distinction.

And as the pages of time continued to turn, I rejoiced in this sacred privilege of entering their world for a few brief moments. And celebrating the gift that each of them are to this world.

In my last post, I shared that it’s often hard to miss the sweet embraces of our Savior.

This day, my friends, was not one of them.

Now it's your turn! What’s a moment that you beheld recently?



This post is dedicated to the wonderful community of staff and families at our son’s school. We are ever grateful for your prayers and tangible support for our family during my health crisis. And we pray that the Lord returns the blessing to each of you in abundance.