the beauty of brokenness

There is a prayer that may not have been prayed for me, but it certainly has been answered in my life. I thank God the the shattered dreams of my heart and His longing to chase after me.

"May this beautiful young woman, still my treasured little granddaughter, discover that place in her heart where she desires You above everything else. May she discover that place in her heart that only love flowing from Yours can fill.

"Please, Lord, shield her from every useless trial, protect her from pointless pain, but-grant me the courage to mean this-allow whatever dreams to shatter that will release her heart to meet Yours, that will empower her to rest in Your ecstatic love, no matter how empty and desperate she may feel.

"Reveal the beauty of Your life to her and through her, whatever it takes. But, Lord, I beg you-be very gentle."

- Larry Crabb

Psalm 23

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.