Rice and Beans of Life: Nestled

Breath of life ... Nestled

We are in the midst of a torment. Physically, the wind is literally swirling with seeming gale force strength, threatening to topple even the tallest tree with deep roots. I've even questioned how our tin roofs can possibly remain attached. Emotionally, the toll of this torment has ravaged us to the depths of our soul, threatening (albeit not succeeding) to strip away our peace as the tin on our roofs, attempting to upend our banqueting table with its feast of promises that He has nourished us with since long past. Spiritually, the gale force winds have thrown their heart and soul into taking our eyes off the Maker of these winds. The lies pelt like rain, "where is the hope for tomorrow ... I'm not sure it really will be ok ... YOU have seriously called us here for this?"

I've come to this hiding place feeling bashed, battered and blubbering. He tenderly wipes my tear stained cheek, tips my chin toward Him, I'm pretty sure there was an eye roll on His part as once again ... He's asked me to choose trust. To choose, "the firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something" ... specifically Him.

In my minds eye, I stand on the precipice of this cliff, arms spread wide, the sun on my face. In reality, I'm tucked in the yellow corner of my hiding place as the winds whip around me. I'm safe. I'm nestled against, I'm rooting deep, I'm feasting on and ... trying to choose trust. The peace that ensues is the cushion of calm at the center of my being, that place I've nestle into that enables me laugh in the face of my tormentor. Yes, there is bright hope for tomorrow. Yes, it really will be ok. Yes, He has called us here for this ...

1Chronicles 16:11

"Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always." Not just when the storm rages, it's a daily resting in His radiant presence.

The peace of the hiding place ... The storm rages ... The choice to trust.

Life on the Mountain ...

School is currently 2/3 at school and 1/3 zoom at home. Last night's sentiment is felt by all, "I can't believe I'm saying this, but I actually look forward to going to school tomorrow!" AMEN son! The fact there are 4 new girls in his class might be of slight significance! ... Cleaning out and preparing a house for our new directors ... Sunday's sabbath rest ... Heart felt conversations with staff ... breathing in the sweetness of sharing life briefly with El Nido Mama's (Covid protocol slightly enforced, hugs permitted, snuggles welcomed) ... The boldness to investigate new possibilities for banking ... Hand shaken, homemade ice cream ... Video calls with Micah ... Sharing the culture of Costa Rica with his school class ... Dreaming with our boys about their futures ... and ... Choosing to walk forward in trust when the temptation to curl up and cry feels more inviting.

Praise

Physical protection, health and strength

Mental fortitude - we know where it comes from!

Hearts willing to open up and share their pain

Restructured family devotions

Friends near and far who desire life for us

Sharing life with the Ebersols, a highlight for all

Grief is a journey, it comes in parts not all at once

Those moments when His spirit floods mine and a song comes forth

Peace as we trust

Prayer

The Transition - there's a huge weight in those words

To find the missing pouch

Nofzigers as they come to VN to learn, love and lead

Peace in Joseph's heart, for future plans, for hope

Miracles of healing for Richie, Johnny, Nathan

Restful sleep, healthy bodies and peace over our minds

God's increase over Vida Missions teams and Vida220 students

To choose trust

Putting his energy to good use!

Trying his hand at homemade bread ... success!


Dig in ... delicious Cas mousse.

Then came, they played, they worked ...
Our lives are fuller because of their Love for Father ...
The spontaneity of their visit was a gift from Father.