Thank you so much for your prayers. In the last month, we have seen a huge difference in Sarah, and I think that helps us to feel a weight is removed from our shoulders too! We’ve been so blessed lately by words of Graham Cooke on our Identity and Inheritance as children of God. God's really helped us to put in words for Sarah to understand too - that NOTHING can separate her from the love of God, and that God has special blessings in store for her. We explained that Satan would love to discourage her so much through her loss that she wouldn't love God anymore, but that God has special plans for her and wants to fill her heart with his love and joy! Those truths, in combination with getting through the tough emotions and memories of Christmas, God has really brought a remarkable change in Sarah's heart. Grief is still something she will need to cope with, but not to be burdened by the spirit of grief. She says often, "But I still love God!" and has made a few paintings affirming that.

We are being reminded that although we are weeping, joy does return. (Psalm 30:5). Graham Cooke says that lamentation is a powerful form of worship. "Lamentation is when we step into the very thing that is bothering us and worship God anyway. It is stepping into our pain, stepping into the reality of what life is like for us. Here I am Lord, a lamenting worshiper says. Things are bad, but You are glorious, and I worship You."
A few other things have been contributing to Sarah rediscovering her joy. First of all, she is celebrating her 5th birthday on February 8! For her party with friends, she chose to invite friends who know her big sister, Nina. Secondly, she has learned to skate and is feeling really proud of herself. Marie and Sarah often skate at an outdoor rink in town and Sarah is undeterred by her many falls. Sarah is also really benefiting from a class on "Coping with Grief" for kids her age. Finally, one morning recently Sarah woke up in an excited voice, "I dreamed about my sister! She hugged and kissed me!" God is so gracious, isn't He?

Thank you for your continued prayers. God is truly sustaining us. How amazing that he could ever renew our joy! May he also renew yours, whatever your circumstances.

Habakkuk 3:17-18
17 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.