Sincerely Sophi

              Something I wrote in the week leading up to Romania and my passport appointment: Lord, would you prepare my heart for Romania.  I prayed this, not fully knowing what I was asking of God. I know it is something to pray for. To ask others to pray for. I know I want to be prepared. I want God to work and grow my heart. But I had no idea what that might look or feel like.  This past week has been incredibly hard. But in the midst of the anxiety and struggle I have become more aware of God. More aware of His presence. His goodness. His provision and protection and peace. His control over all things.  There seems to be a constant battle. Waves of peace wash over me and then something happens that threatens to drown me in grief and anxiety. I feel as though I’m breaking to pieces but then I feel a soft assuredness in God who is holding me together.  I knew the process of going to Romania would be one that would stretch and grow my faith from the moment I committed to the trip. B

It has been a childhood dream of mine to be a “regular.” To show up to some place and have the barista or waiter ask, “your usual?” only to hand me the anticipated drink or food item before I even pull out my card and sit in my everyday seat.  Today that dream came true, mostly. I walked into Chapters Books and Coffee, a coffee shop my friend Emelia and I regularly attend. I pretty much order the same iced oat milk latte every time. Today I came a bit early by myself. I had earbuds in, which is unusual for me when walking, but I was having a hard day and listening to Shane and Shane’s “Psalm 46” on repeat. A declaration of scriptural truth I need to hear right now. I set my stuff at a table and walked up to the counter where my favorite barista asked, “Are you getting your latte today?”  I was surprised. She remembered? “Yep! My iced oat milk latte please, oh with cinnamon!” She also asked how I was doing.  “Not too great, but I’ll be okay, what about you?” I asked. She said she