Smitten

I went out with some of the other teachers tonight to this really cute Italian place that's a block from where we live. (c: They also have toasted bagels. I have yet to do any sampling, but am keenly looking forward to it. I didn't eat because I wasn't hungry yet, but we went and walked downtown and got ice cream, and I bought myself flowers. I've been thinking about it for awhile, but finally decided it was worth it.

We walked back through the park and I stopped next to my favorite magnolia tree. The blossoms are deep purple, and just . . . beautiful. I came home and was writing a friend when it just hit me how grateful I am for everything Jesus has done for me. Romans 1:20 comes to mind, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." I think back over my life, the people that I've met, the experiences I've had, the things I've seen and read, known and understood. I am thankful not to have been converted into a belief, but to have been captured by Love. I pray it captures you as well.

God keep you. (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Love and Hate

The banking system here is not my friend. Periodically my cash card just doesn't work. I haven't figured out any pattern either. Sometimes during the day, late at night, at stores, at the bank . . .??? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? I have no idea! But it makes me sad. Maybe it's good because it makes me take cash everywhere I go just to be safe, and if I don't have cash on me then I end up staying home - which is usually cheaper. Still, it's frustrating.

I found Isaiah 58 this week:
"Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter - when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?" (v. 5-7)

It makes me think about my life and want to be hospitable not only with my heart, but also with my home.