In this long month of January, when the sky presents us with more grey than blue, I cherish the times we can be outside without rain.  We built a fire the other night, and enjoyed some dry weather under a rain free January sky.  Sitting outside at night is one of my favorite things to do, no matter what season.

Stephen and I sat there by ourselves for a while, but then Isabel came out and joined us. She sat quietly and held our naked dog, Levi, who just got all his hair shaved off due to mats.  My other girls stayed inside to finish up homework.

We enjoyed the sound of the crackling fire and the warmth that it produced.  I loved every minute.

Isabel broke the silence.

“You know those boots with the stars? I want to take those boots and put them in my backpack when I go to the Dominican Republic.  Everyday I will bring the boots with me to the Compassion project, and when I meet the right little girl for those boots, I am going to take her aside and give them to her.   But first, I want to wash her feet, put nice socks on her feet, and then give her the boots.  This is my dream and what I am excited for.”

Stephen smiled gently, “Wash her feet huh?”

“Yep.” said Isabel.

Then she asked us what we were excited for…but our answers seemed so grown  up and boring compared to hers.

Everyday God reveals Himself to me.  Sometimes it’s in a little way and  sometimes it’s in a big way.  Often, He does this through my own children using  the very essence of their innocence and beauty.

You call me Teacher and Lord–and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. (John 13:13-17)