SEASON 3, EPISODE 17, “TO LIVE WITH FEAR”

44

WELCOME HOME

“Just being home, all of us, will be picnic enough.”

—LAURA INGALLS

Reuniting with our families after a difficult event is a sweet time. Home is where we can be ourselves with the people we love. Laura knew this to be true as she waited for her parents to return home from the hospital with Mary. She longed for the family to be together again.

Leaving the hospital following brain surgery, I couldn’t wait to cross the threshold of our home. I missed the faces of my children and my comfortable bed. At the same time, exhaustion and the overwhelming fear of getting back to normal loomed over me. I realized the next eight weeks would be challenging, my brain trying to heal in the midst of chaos. I’d have to make decisions for my children when I couldn’t even take a shower unsupervised. I told myself to concentrate on one thing at a time.

The trip home was difficult physically, but I’ll never forget walking through the door and seeing my children. Hugs and kisses welcomed me. Flowers filled the house. Smiles and laughter were everywhere. Curiosity won out, and they each took a peek at the long row of metal staples across my scalp. My son decided my incision looked about as awesome as an Orc from The Lord of the Rings. We ate and laughed and told stories.

Unfortunate circumstances take us away from our homes and families. When God brings us back together again, it’s as wonderful as a family picnic: we are all in one place marveling at what He’s done. Laura loved the feeling of her family being whole again. We can too. We can enjoy every moment, sharing the goodness of the Lord and all we’ve learned.

I will tell of the LORD’s unfailing love. I will praise the LORD for all he has done. I will rejoice in his great goodness to Israel, which he has granted according to his mercy and love.

ISAIAH 63:7 NLT

Think of a time when you returned home from something difficult. How did you feel to be with your family again? How did God show you His goodness?