I looked for God this year.
I found Him in the breathtaking coast of the Pacific Northwest, the smile of my godson, the matchless feeling of being believed in, and the beautiful liturgy of Communion.
I saw Him in friends who journey with me for the long haul, from mourning with me when I mourn all the way to rejoicing with me when I rejoice... and back again.
I found Him in the the tear-stained pillowcase of a broken heart. And in the stomach-hurts-can't-breathe laughter of pure joy.
I saw Him in the glimmers of hope awakened in my heart, the generosity of friends acting as His hands of provision, and the signs of autumn promising me that this season is drawing to a close.
I looked for God this year.
I saw Him in gifts given and taken away... In endings and beginnings, doors closing and opening, friendships starting and ceasing.
I found Him in the life and death of one of His beloved servants.
I saw Him in the small minutia of my every day, discovering again how much He cares about my small things.
I found Him in pain-ridden arms held high, music that steals my breath and draws my heart ever closer to Him, and a candlelit gymnasium cathedral on Christmas Eve.
I saw Him in my own desperate need for grace.
I looked for God this year.
And looking will remain my lifelong journey...