Treasure...

I'm somewhat speechless tonight. Okay, well, not completely speechless. But I've been sitting at the computer for a while, trying to put into words what I'm feeling tonight. I was invited to share a special moment today with some friends as they brought home their little one from Ethiopia. It was a first for me, being on this side of the gate. I've experienced many happy reunions at airports, but there's just nothing like being a part of this kind of reunion. My friends, Matt and Christy, walked off that plane with the sweetest of treasures in their arms. I know because I've been to the other side of the world and back to bring home my own sweet treasure. I know because I saw their hearts reflected in their eyes.

Waiting for the plane to arrive...

What a sweet poster her brother and sister made for her!

Still waiting... for security to bust them...

As I got my turn to hug my friend, I loved seeing the tears glistening in her eyes as she told me how incredible this experience had been. It is incredible, this invitation we have to love. This experience is far beyond a journey to another country. It is a journey of the heart, to depths we've never really imagined or completely understood. And once begun, a journey that begs to be continued.

Mihret meeting her new big sister...

And her new big brother...

I hugged my friend once more, so happy to tell her that, as incredible as the last week has been for her, it only gets better from here. I think...no, I know... that being given the opportunity to love in this way deepens one's ability to love, period. It's indescribable, really, this love. And love is the greatest, most priceless treasure.

Caroline finally got a chance to give the new baby a kiss!

Tonight, sweet Mihret is tucked into her own little bed...in her home...with her family. She is loved! I saw so much love waiting for her tonight...her brother, her sister, her grandparents, her aunts and uncles. And, someday, as she grows, her family will be able to share with her God's beautiful plan to give her a hope and a future. By His design, she was chosen to be a part of this family. And by His design, the love she is shown will, in turn, teach her how to love.

This photo wasn't staged...truly spontaneous...sweet.

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field."

Matthew 13:44

No, you're not crazy...this blog post was written a few weeks ago, and I'm just now posting it on October 16th.

Yes, I am that behind.