Did you know…

If rain falls from your roof in front of the living room window, it’s a sign the gutters aren’t guttering. If a dogger escapes into another room, it’s a sign he needs the backyard… or not anymore. If you’re “whating” every few sentences, it’s a sign to sign up for a free hearing test. If a symbol lights up on the dashboard, it’s a sign something needs attention sooner than next month. If the gas stove won’t fire up, it’s a sign the pilot light isn’t fired up.

These are signs I’m recognizing. Some for the first time.

Here’s another:

If a Christmas tree is deboxed, put together, strung, ornamented and lit — by the first week in December –, it’s a sign of hope. Of whole. Of steps. Surely such a thing speaks of future, anticipation, nostalgia, frivolity — such a thing glimmers of hope. I’m amazed that my tree twinkles in the window. And that I like to gaze at it. Who did that? It wasn’t anyone who lived here last year. Was there Christmas last year?

And another:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6) And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12)

I’m finding the babe everyday. I’m finding Him beside me, helping me, decorating with me, singing with me. I’m recognizing signs. Of hope. In Him.