That one person could have the weight and pain of such words spoken to her … to battle the truth of one sentence like it was an invading army … dear God.

I stand with you.

And … I think I’ll share something that just happened last week. My last post was on forgiveness (although it doesn’t much sound like it) because God has taught me much about the true meaning of forgiveness (and I suspect is doing the same with you). He brought me to the place of praying this, immediately after being threatened and then screaming every swear word in the book at my husband. I slammed the door, laid down on the couch and prayed, “Father, remember these words spoken against me. Remember these voices gathered against me, and render vengeance on my behalf. But don’t hold any of it to my husband’s account … because he doesn’t have the slightest clue what he’s doing.” The following day something HUGE broke. And while I’m not saying that there’s some magic trick involved here … everyone’s outcomes will look different … I think it was powerful for me. Powerful for him. Justice and mercy set free to work hand in hand.

I can’t imagine walking through what you are. And yet I know the fire brings out the beauty of that which is most precious. I know that it will … that it is … that we get to see this here. We can all choose to jump out of the fire or stay in. You chose (and choose every day) to stay in. Our Master designer doesn’t take that lightly.

“… behold, I Myself have created the smith who blows the fire of coals and brings out a weapon for its work …”

Love you, Alece. I carry you in my heart every day.

thank you for your heart for me.

i love you, lisa!