Bobbie went from full hustle to full halt and discovered what God can do in a valley season.

It ached to hear the harsh words that she knew could be her own, yet it felt so safe and reassuring to know that God sees her and wants her to have new lyrics in her own heart.

Acknowledging the dark as well as the light feels so honest and helpful in these moments. Although, I will warn, that it can also feel raw and not always easy, YET it is a kindness to ourselves when we start with honesty, isn't it? It is both, difficult and kind.

Letting go.. or saying "no" can be SO HARD ! We don't want to, we'd rather be awesome, all the time, in all the things! BUT... is that really working for you and your people? What do you need to steward (manage, maximize or multiply) better? Do you need to let go of something so that you may better steward something of more value… for a season?

Tracy leaned into the old car unafraid of the dirt and rust that she was now touching.

As I said in an email to my Belize Trip Prayer Team.. “ I am thankful. Actually, I am dumbfounded, humbled and in awe.”

Aren't we all like that line up of broken down cars? Don't we all just want others to see the best in us? Don't we all long for someone to come along and bring us back to life? In the depths of our souls... aren't we all longing for a soul restorer?

I used to listen as he asked questions to various artisans. My dad was mesmerized as he learned how each one would create their piece of art. From painting, to jewelry, to cars, to wood & leather work, to knife forging... he had a respect for all of it. Dad would have loved to come along with me as I photographed this knife forger. He would've been so captivated.