In June my lease was up at my apartment. I knew that I would be moving overseas the following June so I was not able to sign another lease. I needed a place to live. Enter the Z family.
They were my friends. They loved me. They had a full house already. But God in His awesomeness had already put it on their hearts to invite me in before I even asked. I later asked and they said yes, full house and all.
I had not lived with many people before in my life. I had a really hard experience with roommates in college. But had a really great experience living in community for a season after. I knew that living in a full home would be a challenge but I was ready. Or was I?
Before I moved in I sold almost all of my possessions. As I moved into my room in the basement of a loud and busy house I realized I was not prepared for the emotions that would come out. The first few months were hard for me. Probably harder for them.
The Z family had to watch from the outside of what was going on in my heart. They saw me retreat into my shell. The saw me withdraw. They saw the smile and laughter fade. They responded with grace when I would snap. They listened to the cries that would waft up the stairs from my room. They tried not to take things personally.
I had moved so many times in the past 3 years but this move was unlike any before. In this move God renovated my heart. The demolition that happened on the inside must have been hard to see from the outside.
Living with people is bound to be challenging. Quarrels will happen. But in this home forgiveness trumps it all.
This house has become home. These people have become family. This place is the place I crave to be. It is my comfort. They are my safe place.
Today I am thankful for the Z family.
I am thankful for their love.
I am thankful for the acceptance.
I am thankful for their support.
I am thankful for their grace and forgiveness.
I am thankful for the challenges and lessons learned and ones to come!
What are you thankful for?
~Nicole
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