The gentle breeze caressed her face and playfully danced with her as she talked to the grove. It was a comforting place, a haven from the eternal storms that raged beyond the trees of safety. Hair dripping wet and clothing in disarray, she felt peaceful as the warm breeze dried her, causing her hair to form into ringlets. A light blue blanket was spread out on the grass and she sat down gratefully. A pair of doves flew past her and a hind bounded through the grove, delicate feet nimble and sure.
The
girl stood up and ran to the newcomer, who took her in His arms. “Little one.”
His voice was audible love and she knew His gentle smile was on His face. They
sat on the blanket, facing one another, silently enjoying each other’s presence
for a time. Meanwhile, a lion cub and a lamb, which had been playing together
nearby, ran over to rest at His side.
The girl finally
spoke, glancing at the faded scars on her pale arms. “I still can’t thank You
enough for what You’ve done, especially in the last two years. The valley was
so dark and I stumbled so often but the way You picked me up and transformed
me…” she found no more words and fell into contented silence. He took her hands
and held them tightly before His eyes grew sad. “My child, you once begged for
reconciliation among the others and I have plans for them. And those plans
involve you and an even deeper valley.”
She sat very still,
thoughts clambering within the confines of her mind, though she let none
escape. Instead, she gazed at Him patiently and He continued a moment later.
“Little one, it won’t be easy and it will take time.” He waited for her
response, though He knew with a smile what it would be. “You’ll stay with me
through this? You’ll carry me when I can’t walk another step?” He nodded and a
determined look settled on her face. “Well then, let’s go see this valley. Just
lead the way.”
So they left the
grove, stepping back out into the rain, walking towards the dark valley
entrance. There they paused and He looked at her. “Ready?” She put her small
hand in his big strong hand and nodded. And they skipped into the darkness.
