In Our Father's Arms

Shawn's parents are in town visiting us from New York this week. Not only does Jenna get to meet more grandparents, we are also blessed with another round of photos for the Jenna archives.

Shawn's mother, Lee, captured this shot of Shawn and Jenna as we were preparing for a photo shoot in the Texas bluebonnets. There's something about it that takes my breath away. Jenna seems so tiny... And Shawn is just so in love. What a beautiful moment.

I think that maybe God holds us this way at times. Protecting us when we are vulnerable. Supporting us when we are unable to support ourselves. Loving us. Adoring us. Holding us safe from the dark clouds that drift past us from time to time.

My hope is that I can be like Jenna - with arms open. Trusting. Receiving. Allowing. Cooing with delight. Already, she is my teacher.

(Fast forward 5 minutes later... we find our supermodel basking in the beauty of springtime. Is it possible that her presence can make even the bluebonnets seem more beautiful?)

The Kingdom of Heaven is Like...

Jesus had some great metaphors to describe the kingdom of heaven. I suspect he would have thrown them all out the window if he had a baby girl to hold and a loyal dog by his side. No metaphor needed. This is it.

Jenna is asleep in my arms even as I post to this blog, sighing her little baby sighs, and bringing her warmth to my heart. There is something about her presence that pulls me into the moment... that overshadows anything that hints at imperfection... that brings forth my most peaceful and present part of myself. There is something about her that puts "reality" into perspective, and helps me remember - wherever we are, God is -and all is well.

What is it for you? What would you say the kingdom of heaven is like???