joyful longing

Rick's been out of town since Monday. He returned last night.

I don't think I can sufficiently express what a wonderful feeling it is to miss someone and to be so happy to have them back. Nor could I adequately explain what a blessing it is to have their be such a gaping whole in your life, family, and home when they're away. I don't know if this makes sense, but I don't think I've ever been so happy to miss someone in my life! The implications of that longing are monumental. That sentiment didn't just ripple through our home... it rocked it! The kids were rather melancholy at certain times too. Times that Rick normally would be at his work here, and one of the kids would get quiet and rather solemn, then say, "I wish Daddy didn't have to go to Texas." I was so happy for them. Happy that they had the same feeling and longing to have him near that I did. Happy for Rick. Just happy.

I felt this sigh of relief to my core when I saw him standing at the airport awaiting our pick up. Strange as it seems, I think I heard the house let a sigh of relief when he walked through the door. It was like the rules of life didn't quite work the same while he was away... almost as if the rules of emotional gravity were somehow altered in this Salvador Dali kind of way.

What a relief to have him home. What a blessing he is. What a gift we've been given. God's grace is amazing. His patience with us is infinite. My marriage, moreover, my sincere admiration, respect, and appreciation for my husband, are a testament to God's wisdom, generosity and power. I find myself thanking God for so much. I'm genuinely remorseful for the years that I resented who Rick was as a man. More importantly, I thank God for showing me the man he created Rick to be and, in turn, helping me become the woman God intends me to be. What a blessing. What a blessing.

I pray that you would have the blessing of missing someone in your life.. the gift of longing and the experience of their absence revealing God in your life.

Have a most precious day holding close those God's given you. Trust that He has a plan to use those relationships to help deliver you to His feet and to glorify Him.

In awe and so VERY grateful,
Jenny