I’m writing this from a hospital room. Three weeks ago my Mom had emergency double bypass surgery. I flew to Texas to be with her. What followed has been a journey of ups and downs, twists and turns, tears and praises, complications and victories. {Thank you so much to those of you who have prayed for her as I posted on social media–you can read the details here!}
I don’t have many words yet but I know with every part of me this is true: Christ is bigger than any crisis. Also, sometimes we need our sisters and brothers to be His hands and feet and heart to us. To give the medicine. To offer the words of encouragement. To put a hand on our shoulder when our knees sway beneath us.
We are so grateful that God chose to answer our prayers in the ways we hoped. After complications and obstacles to overcome, Mama is so much better. I have seen up-close, for real miracles happen. Yes, I know the story doesn’t always unfold this way–I’ve been there too–but I’m clinging to the hope and joy of right here, right now, today.
More than ever, I’m celebrating LOVE this Valentine’s Day. But not the fluffy teddy bear, sweet candy heart kind. No, I’m celebrating the love that fights the darkness. The love that heals. The love that saves and redeems and carries us when we can’t take another step. The love that is a Person who lives and weeps and bleeds with and for us. {God is love. – 1 John 4:8.}
I pray that kind of love surrounds and fills and sustains you today too.
Happy Valentine’s Day from my sweet Mama and I,
Holley Gerth
P.S. Mama said to tell you that if you’re over 40, get a Heart Scan. I’m getting one as soon as I can. It found 95% blockage in two of her arteries, which was a complete shock to us, and likely saved her life.
P.P.S. If you need a little extra encouragement this Valentine’s Day {or if you know someone who might…} my book You’re Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect might be the perfect thing. You truly are loved, friend!
*****
Right now, we’re doing a special link-up series to celebrate Fiercehearted: Live Fully, Love Bravely. You’re a fiercehearted woman so I’m asking you to pour out a little love and courage with your words every Wednesday {the link-up goes live at 5:30am CST}. Simply write an encouraging blog post, especially if it’s about living fully and loving bravely, and then share it here. Don’t have a blog? You can still write an encouraging comment. If you’re reading this by email, go to holleygerth.com to see all the fun and join in too.
When you link up your post, take a moment to leave an encouraging comment on the one that’s linked up just before yours. Thanks, friends!
I’m having Coffee For Your Heart with my friend Holley Gerth!
{click to tweet that you’re joining me here today}
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