I’m sitting on the couch up at Lum’s lake house. Some of you may know the spot. It’s a treasured retreat spot for me and my prayer bud, Robin. We try to escape a couple of times a year and come here for a prayer retreat. There’s something about this simple place that immediately puts my soul to rest and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the Holy Spirit has the address. He has met us many times. My sword is placed in its regular spot on the fireplace hearth and I am snug on the couch under a blanket. For the almost two days we’ve been here it’s been raining. Curses! I’ve been forced to stay inside and vegetate! I’ve been reflecting on this past season and our beloved “HouseLights.” I don’t know about you but it has been a difficult one. It was demanding and sometimes disappointing and gee I wish I could think of another “d” word. And yet, what fruit, what breakthroughs we are experiencing on the other side. We have strong, passionate leaders in place that desires to grow this team in ways we’ve never grown before. We have great creative collaboration happening which has produced creative elements for Sundays. Our community bonds are strengthening as we share life and ministry together—and even make community an acting exercise like Jack and Jill’s housewarming party (so much fun). Not to mention how my heart soared the evening we shared our “Home” ideas. Everyone’s willingness to share a little bit more of themselves was an incredible blessing. How much more do I love and appreciate you all! I came across this verse today and I want to share it with you. Proverbs 13:12 and part of 19: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life…a longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul.”
We are experiencing a longing fulfilled and it is bringing life and sweetness to our souls and the soul of our team. Has a longing been filled for you lately? Or do you have a hope or a longing that has not been fulfilled. Is your heart sick? Hold fast in the Lord who carries your hopes close to His heart. He nourishes each desire and prepares you to receive them. Then in perfect season, He releases them on the winds of mercy falling gently in your presence, better than you could have ever imagined. Praise God, the Hope Holder and Heart Healer!
Posted by dwhitten 
