Mornings Like This.

Yesterday, I got up and met with a sweet friend of mine who God so perfectly placed in my life not-so-long-ago. I am seeing more and more in my life how He ordains each and every relationship that crosses my path... and I become overwhelmed with gratefulness.

It was a simple morning. Coffee and Scones, Swingsets, and Talking.
But it was perfect.
I need mornings like this. Mornings of simplicity and mornings where true friendship ring true.
Toward the end, sweet little "S", two years old and full of spunk and boldness... melted down. Despite mommy's amazing efforts to calm, to rebuke in love, to love amidst disobedience, she fought back. I love this little girl. SO much. She has incredible strength, even at two years old, and I know that this boldness is going to be used to further the Kingdom of God.
But as I came home yesterday... thanking God for both little girl and her mommy, I couldn't help but feel convicted.

How often do I act exactly the same as my future little flower girl?
How often do I think I know what's best and exhibit attitudes of pride and disrespect toward my Father?
How often do I turn my head away when my Jesus scolds me in love?
How often do I melt down when things don't go a certain way?

The answer is often. Way too often.

I was reminded yesterday, as I watched mommy so wonderfully love her daughter through consequences, that Jesus loves me. Simple, I know. But He does. He loves me, despite the moments when He picks me up and takes me away from an opportunity/person/dream that I thought was perfect. HIS plan is always perfect, where mine is fallible.

Praying today that my face would always be turned toward His, and my ears would be tuned to hear His voice.

Thanks for yesterday, friend. I love you. I love your daughter. I love Jesus for bringing your name and face upon my heart.

And I love mornings like this.