Morning Lord! Here I am, back to my usual routine. Both of the children were back to their usual selves by this morning so have returned to where they rightfully belong. Of course it’s also Bible Study day and I have been in two minds about whether to go or not in case Nathan is too tired after this morning’s exertions. However Dad called half an hour ago and said he would come and spend the afternoon with Nathan if there was anything I wanted to do, so Cinderella will get to go to the ball after all. I must say I am quite looking forward to it.
Then, as you know, Linley called not ten minutes ago (filling in a few fallow moments at work) and when I mentioned how pleased I was with my Cinders moment she was most derisive. In fact she was almost mocking, asking what could possibly be the point in going to a Bible Study to delve into a book that has long since lost its relevance. I must say I was quite shocked by her comments, firstly because it made me realise just how far from you Linley has got, and secondly, that she would so tactlessly dishonour the faith I have chosen.
I must say I’m not sure I did a very good job at convincing her otherwise. I think my lame stammerings about the Bible being God-breathed and alive through the prompting and guidance of the Holy Spirit were about as effective as a chocolate teapot. I sure wish I were better able to think on my feet and know what to say in such situations. I have absolutely no doubt that Libby would have given a fantastic answer under the same circumstances.
Regardless, getting a glimpse at Linley’s true heart was a real shock. There were times in the past that I felt she really had made a commitment to you. Of course only you see the heart of man (or woman), Lord, and know what lurks beneath our shiny exteriors, but it seems to me that whatever embers of faith once existed have been well and truly snuffed out. The question is, does any residual heat remain so that the flame might once again be fanned into being? All I can do (all I ever seem to be able to do) is to pray that you would work in her heart and fan the pile of dying coals that is her heart back to life again.
I also pray for your hand to be on our group today as we meet, that you would be with Libby as she prepares to host us, and that you would be with us as we look into your word. Be with Caroline as she carries on packing up the remnants of the life she once lived. I also continue to pray that you would solve the problem of where she should go next since moving day is just over a week away and at this stage she has nowhere to go. Be with my family, especially with the children, and (as always, but not often enough) I continue to pray for their salvation. Thank you for your love. Amen.