Extravagant Love from an Intimate Friendship

The shower drizzling in the bathroom below my bed roused me. The red glow from my alarm clock read 5:16. I could tell it was still dark outside through the cracks in my blinds. I turned over and sunk deeper into my cushy bed. It was way too early. My eyes fluttered open again when a specific feeling of purpose engulfed me. My thoughts argued with this feeling as I closed my eyes and wiggled further into my bed. The feeling nudged again... three more times. I finally flung the thick covers over, sat up, and flipped off the alarm that didn't get a chance to buzz... Once downstairs I stared at the dripping coffeepot for a moment, then curled up on the couch. My mom came out of the bathroom wondering why I got up so early. The coffeepot gurgled, then let out one final sputter. Mom and I each poured a cup and sat on the couch. The urge hovered. After a while my mom rose to get her shoes. I knew I had to act on the feeling that had pressed so hard that morning. I got up to wish my mom goodbye. As I hugged her, I prayed with her about her day, her interview, and her confidence. I felt a sense of peace and yet a spark of excitement and power. I listened to that voice that was so clearly the Holy Spirit. And it was so satisfying.

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Worship tunes gently played as my car traveled up and down the hilly roads to work. The sun was streaking through the trees, occasionally blinding me as I rounded corners. The song switched just as I came to the crest of the hill. I sat in awe. A blanket of purple covered the silhouette of the magnificent Cascade Mountains directly in front of me. Every crease and pocket was exaggerated by rich violet hues. The song playing exclaimed, "Your love is extravagant. Your friendship; it is intimate. I feel I'm moving to the rhythm of your grace, your fragrance is intoxicating in the secret place..." It was God's gift - just for me! What a beautiful confirmation - such a royal reward for my obedience so early that morning! My eyes grew moist, my mouth stretched into a thankful smile, and I began to sing praises to my captivating God.

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My keys jingled in my hand as I made by way to unlock the 1st and 2nd grade building. The cool air tickled my face. With each stride, moist, chilly air swept across my bare ankles exposed by my black capri pants. The sun illuminated the pond and lower field, but the buildings sat in their last minutes of dewy shadows. I just knew it was going to be an amazing day. The clock had barely hit 7 a.m. and God had already done so much! Another promise was soon revealed: "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ." -Philippians 1:6. God is continuing to amaze me daily, and I am so thankful for every scrap of evidence of His existence in my life.