SEASONS OF BEAUTY AND ASHES

God is always working to weave beauty out of the ashes, out of the hard. Looking at a tapestry from the backside looks messy. It’s not until the threads have all been woven together that one can turn the tapestry over and view the masterpiece that has been created. Sometimes looking at life from our point of view looks messy.

In this season, our homes look pretty with their trees decorated, other decorations carefully placed around and the excitement that the children exhibit as many fun activities await to be attended this month. But in the quiet, and sometimes the plain open, we have children who are hurting. Perhaps terrible things have passed this year that had courts deem home was not safe.  Perhaps it is the first time they have not been with biological family for a holiday.  Perhaps their parents have lost parental rights this year and the hopes of reunification seem lost. Perhaps the holidays bring back sweet memories that can’t be recreated at all. The laughter, excitement and anticipation of the season can be a facade for many of the children.

It is during this time that we take note of what is going on in the inside. We share forgiveness, kindness and love. Long hugs and just letting the children know we see the pain can often be what they need, knowing that outbursts, the withdrawal and quietness and the attitudes are a reflection of the hurt. Sometimes it is just being there, no words spoken.

In this season, we are ever reminded that we need to trust in God’s control over everything, even the things that seem so wrong and out of control, for He is still at work. That promise is reflected in His fulfillment to send a Savior who paid the price for all wrongs and restore a relationship with our Heavenly Father. Oh, we long for the day when everything will be made right, when there will be no more sorrow nor tears. But in the wait, we do our best to be a safe refuge and listening ear.  Would you join us in praying for the staff and children during this season?