Sisters, first-timer, and purpose.

1. A Darlene knocks at my door, signalling the end of my hibernating Saturday. We make the most of a free evening, pay day, a buy one take one massage coupon, red nail polish, a much-awaited sleepover and our menfolk being busy with manly pursuits.

2. It is my first time to visit Darl’s new church since she miraculously manages to drag me off bed before noon. The message is from Joel, and it is a reassurance for the seemingly endless time I’ve spent in this rut:

“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten —
the great locust and the young locust,
the other locusts and the locust swarm -
my great army that I sent among you.”
Joel 2:25

3. I am reminded during our BOT meeting that our calling is an all-of-life ministry. That I am where I am right now for a very good reason. =)

4. I’ve been feeling pensive recently about the important people in my life who’ve seemed to forgotten I exist, or who no longer seem to have time for the long heart-to-heart, life-affirming talks that I crave. I’ve gradually realized that I’ve been trying to force myself where I am not needed nor wanted, and that I’ve been seeking to belong where I am not welcome. This weekend, He reminded me to appreciate the people who are there and be more intentional about sharing their journey. People who make time, who still continue to seek me out even when I am being flaky, whiny, and undecided. Who take my verbal eruptions laughingly and argues just as loudly without taking offense. Who understand that it gets tiring to always be on the receiving end of rejected invitations and instead initiate reaching out. Who affirm that my passions are not misplaced and encourage me in this season in the valley. Friends whose lives and stories and honesty remind me of my first love.

Indeed, God sets the lonely in families. Psalm 68:6.