I Can't Go Home for Easter

A few days ago I was on the phone with my Dad and he informed me that I couldn't come home for Easter. Because my mom's job has her helping distribute food to the community during this pandemic, she is not able to have contact with anyone who lives outside of her house. Unfortunately, that means me too. My heart sank a little when I realized not only could I not visit with my family and little nieces and nephew, I also would be completely alone in an empty, mostly packed up house for Easter. I knew it wasn't the end of the world, I had spent Easter away from my family before, but it's never been like this, it's never been completely alone. The world has never been quite like this before at all. Shut down, silent, on pause. If that wasn't enough for you already, I'm also being required to move from a place I've been living for the last almost 6 years, during this crazy, and those logistics sometimes feel like something entirely else on its own. BUT this morning I received a special package from my parents. They sent me an Easter Basket since I couldn't be home to get one. This year it was extra special, premium chocolate with my favorite flavors. I knew it was coming because they had let me know to watch for the package. But I didn't know that they had made it extra special. When I opened it up and saw that they had put extra thought and love into it, it touched my heart. It wasn't really about the chocolate at all you see, is it ever really anyways? It was about being seen, valued, loved, and not ignored. It was about being acknowledged and understood that this was a disappointing situation. It meant a lot to me. 

Though there is value and validity in my feelings and situation, I also realize and acknowledge that even in my circumstances, I am very blessed. I know there are tons of other people around the world suffering in much greater ways right now. Being alone for Easter, has me thinking of them, or you, maybe you're someone dealing with difficult too. If you are, I want you to know that you, no matter what you are facing or feeling, are unimaginably loved and cherished. Jesus, sees, feels, and understands everything you are facing, and he is standing next to you in it. I don't know if you've lost a job, a loved one, a home, your health, or your sanity, but what I do know is that Jesus can give it back to you. Last night I was sitting in my room talking to Jesus and he showed me that because of his great love for us. There is NO good thing he will not do for us!!! His word says in Mark 11:24 that whatever we ask for in his name, believing that he will do it and not doubting, it will be ours. So today I encourage you friend. Muster up that Mustard seed of faith inside you and stand!!! Ask God for what you need and want and don't waiver when you hear the devil whisper otherwise, then you will surely see what you ask of God.  I love you, and I AM praying for you,  <3 Hillary