Lean into His presence—and stay there.

I keep trying to think of how to say it—how do you put words to express the gratitude you feel for the life that you have that you know you don’t deserve?
How do you explain the hope that has been rekindled deep within you because the Savior has once again rescued and redeemed and restored your heart?

This year has felt more fragile in some ways…but also more fortified. I suppose it’s that the older I get and the more that I walk through and the longer I attempt to be a decent parent, friend, wife, sister, aunt, daughter, etc., the more I am deeply aware of my need.
I need Jesus to be a part of anything good and lasting.
He is the kindness and the warmth of every interaction.
He is the generosity that helps my fingers loosen their grip and give—and in doing so, I come to understand what He means that it is ALWAYS far better to give than to receive.
He is the strength in seasons where we want to quit or feel discouraged.
He is the passion that helps us pursue what is holy and He is the LOVE—the love that meets us exactly where we are at, fills in every gap, and overflows us to give to others.
It’s Jesus.
It’s always Jesus.
And He never tires of us. Nothing we do could diminish our value or disqualify us from our calling.

I watched Sleddy open his first gift, scream with excitement—then he came over and just hugged me. And then He stayed.
He lingered in that hug + I knew—this is my Christmas gift.
Watching Will soak in the wonder of his son—that is my Christmas gift.
Family and friends coming over and staying— lingering—that’s it. Remaining and being together.
I think that’s what Jesus wants from us most—our attention. Our embrace + leaning into His presence—and then staying.
In a world of distraction, it’s the staying part.
That’s what Jesus does. He always stays.

As we all sit around the Christmas dinner table or as we FaceTime with those we love or as we celebrate-in whatever fashion it is, maybe we ask:
Where did you feel the nearness of Jesus this year?
Because that is applicable, true, + full of hope for EVERYONE to reflect + remember.

I am so grateful for you all. Our family pic this year was this—feels about right ❤️
Merry Christmas my friends 🤍