When we first moved into our townhouse, Araella was not quite five. And, although she was fairly tall for her age, I remember clearly how she stood at the bathroom sink as I was getting ready to hang a decorative mirror. "A little lower Mommy. A little lower. There. Now I can see me." That mirror still hangs awkwardly low in our powder room. It makes me smile at the memory of Araella on her tippy-toes trying to see herself that day. The memory of her sweet reflection feels like sunshine. A refection of wonder, innocence, melodies, rhymes, goodness, trust, gentleness, and kindness...
That mirror also makes me pause and think of her reflection the last time she stood in front of it. I can see her trying to hide how much pain she was in. I can see her eyes asking for help. I can see her resolve as I stood there, washing her back with a warm washcloth, wondering what to say... Her reflection wasn't capable of expressing everything that was Rae that day... behind it were thoughts, dreams, fears, lyrics, poems, wishes, joys, sorrows, bruises, scars, regrets, questions, longings, love and faithfulness... behind that reflection was Araella.
Behind that reflection of a broken body was the Spirit that gives life. Behind that reflection was Rae suffering, yet believing in justice, holding on to unseen hope, and having patience. Waiting for healing and freedom and glory to be revealed. Behind that reflection was a hero.
Behind every reflection - behind every photo - is a child of God. You. The you that is fearfully and wonderfully made. The you that is an heir to a Kingdom. The you that is a conqueror. The you that NOTHING can separate from the love of God. (The undeserved, unending love of the King of kings!)
It is a gift to be loved by Him. It was a gift to have had the chance to love Rae when she was here in the flesh. And oh how I look forward to loving her in her resurrected body someday! It is also a gift to have a heart that is overflowing with love for you - my adopted brothers and sisters!!! Mm-hmm, I am looking forward to GREAT BIG family reunions when we are all there together!
YOU have an invitation to the reunion from the King! (If you are not quite sure how to get there, call me and I will help you with directions because google.maps doesn't have that one figured out.)
