Coming Back a DIFFERENT Way

Epiphany.  

Out of all the days in the Christmas season, I think this is my favorite. Don't get me wrong, Christmas Day is AWESOME. There's just something special about THIS day as well, and usually something memorable happens every year. Whether we see these events positive or not, God ALWAYS shows Himself to be there with us. This year is no different. 

Today we leave for Ecuador. Our first trip internationally as a family. This is a "business" trip where we learn a language and culture, but it is also an exciting adventure for us. As expected, we are PSYCHED to go, but also nervous and a little anxious... okay, very anxious. Change has never been really easy for me.  

I have been taught that when we pray the Rosary, we are invited to visualize ourselves in the mysteries. It truly IS amazing when you experience each event personally! When I meditate on the Nativity, I often visualize the "Wise Men Visit". Like we have all seen before, they are reverent and respectful, knowing exactly Who this child is. They offer their gifts with intention and meaning. They have come a long way and they know that they have a long way home, yet they embraced the challenge and courageously made many sacrifices to be there. 

As we prepare for our trip, more connections are made... How many bags could THEY carry on their trip? How many outfits would they have brought? Food? Shoes? Medicines? Toiletries? Paperwork? - How will they protect themselves and their gifts for this King whom they have never seen, but know about?

They must have been crazy. 

Yet, here we are. 

We don't know the exact plan in the end, but we go - knowing Who we are going to meet along the way. Our gifts are not as extravagant, but they are intentional and meaningful. Our sacrifices look very different, but we continue to embrace the challenge ahead. And, like the three wise men, we know our encounter with Him through this experience will impact us, just as before, to the point that there is no way we could go back "home" the same way we came. 

Dios te bendiga.