Since the boys have moved home we have showered them and Kaitlyn with a plethora of hugs and kisses, firm boundaries, and consistent attention.  That has made for some tiring days and long nights but like a friend reminded me; no one said it would be easy, only that it would be worthwhile.

All three have adjusted well and our days seem to have fallen into a rhythm of sorts.  They come to us for help when they need it, for hugs when they hurt, and cuddles when they feel lonely.

A few nights ago when I tucked Jon into bed we said his prayers, then, like every other night, I said, “I love you, Jon.”  For the first time ever he took my face in his tiny hands and squeezed my cheeks together.  He said, “I love you more, Mom.”

After a few more minutes of giggles and snuggles I crept out of the room and wiped my eyes.  That was the first time my son said he loved me. No words have ever been so sweet.

It gave me a tiny glimpse of how God must feel when a soul finally responds to His constant wooing and love.  How His heart must rejoice when a soul goes beyond accepting His care and provision and acknowledges Him and loves Him in return.

Luke 15:10 tells us, “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

If the angels rejoice over repentance, how much more does God, our creator, rejoice?  I can hardly wait to meet Him face to face and fully understand how much He loves me and how much He sacrificed so I would be able to love Him in return.