Klaira Dust

The grandkids came to visit a couple of weeks ago. O yeah, their parents came too. But the real stars of the weekend were the grandkids. We hadn't been able to give them their Christmas presents because of many reasons (sickness, work schedules, school etc) so we got to have a Christmas on Valentine's Day.

Klaira, 4,  who also calls herself Klaira Bell, received a purple Disney Princess dress. She put it on immediately. Disney has done a remarkable job in marketing the heroines from their movies including these elegant, but inexpensive little dresses to their littlest fans.

This one came complete with glitter, lots of glitter; lots and lots of glitter adorning the frilly fringes of the dress. Klaira wore that dress for hours. With every step, every twirl, every jump, dance, and sprint, she deposited glitter, lots and lots of glitter in every room of  the house. We now call it Klaira dust and we are not the least bit worried that after two weeks, three vacuumings, and three moppings we are still seeing Klaira dust around the house. We love it. It's not a mess, it's a reminder. It's not a sign of uncleanness, it's a sign of life, life that inhabits our lives and life that continues to bless even though separated for a while. The glitter does not bring sadness or rebuke or cries of "how will I ever get this stuff cleaned up?'' It brings smiles, laughter, and joy at the prospect of a return glittering.

I believe if we learn how to look, it is not too difficult to discover God glittering out lives with His Presence. In every room, at every turn of life, through the people and events He brings or allows, His Presence is there to convict, comfort, teach, lead, deepen, and enjoy. The Holy Spirit, however, doesn't leave to go back home until the next, too short visit. He remains depositing truth and reminding of One who will return. Yes, at times He may wash over us with overwhelming waves of grace to teach, cleanse, refresh, wash, and renew. At other times, more fitting like a still, small voice, He makes His presence known in a quiet, reflective but just as effective and beautiful way.

It is true, all that glitters is not gold. Sometimes its even better.

  Cos