This last Saturday my girl, who I affectionately call, Kenna Boo Bear, texted me and asked if she could come hang out after church. This was a no brainer, my girls bring life into my home, hence the revolving door day in and day out. She came over, we laughed and had our usual heart to heart talks. She asked if she could stay the night and go to church with us in the morning, I will NEVER turn this down! It means I get to take a shower before church!! Hallelujah!

Sunday, KBB went above and beyond.  She got the boys dressed, took them on a walk, and entertained them so I could get ready for church, uninterrupted! As I was taking a shower, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for this 15 year old’s ability to be the hands and feet of Jesus in my family.

Over the last 17 years I have had the privilege of doing life with some of the most incredible teens known to man. In the very first batch of girls, a few of them are married with children of their own and then in the most recent batch, they are navigating their teens years. No matter where you are, girls, I think of you often and I am so thankful and honored that Jesus has allowed me to know you and live some of your seasons with you!

This letter is for you!

Dear pieces of my heart,

You are loved. You are beautiful. You are all extremely unique and gifted. Jesus knit you in your momma’s wombs and knew that good was coming to the world.

Thank you for loving me like you have. Those of you who loved me when I was just starting out in ministry brought me so much joy,  laughter , and lessons 🙂 Those of you who love me as an almost 40 year old teach me so much! The cool lingo, the fashion do’s and don’ts, the iPhone apps that I don’t want to know exist, and that watching Netflix and chilling, really isn’t watching Netflix and chilling… Most importantly, you have taught me the importance of a good hug, a smile, an “I love you”, and letting loose to have fun.

I beg you, remember who your creator is. Remember that you are royalty. Remember to keep Jesus as your first love, no matter if you are married or not. Keep Jesus on the throne in your hearts and minds. Grace, girls, shower yourselves with grace. Be tender and aware when your heart hurts and allow it to hurt, and then nurture it with tenderness and grace.

I know that you all struggle to some degree with addictions, hurts, losses, anxiety, heart break, depression, loneliness, or low self-respect/love. My heart breaks with you and for you.  BUT, I am comforted because I know that Jesus sees you, cries with you, comforts you, leads you, and is always with you. So, my prayer is that your awareness of the Holy Spirit would be so undeniable in your life. I pray that His comfort, peace, strength, joy, rest, healing, and freedom would burst forth in each of your lives as you pursue God’s heart for you.

There is none like you and it is my joy and honor to know you, love you, and pray over you. Thank you for all that you add to my life.  My existence on this Earth is richer because of you!

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you, of all ages, who brighten my life in the deepest and most meaningful ways!

I love you!