We're still waiting on something to happen. The people in BC have had the information they need in their paws for at least three business days now, so, Lord willing, we'll hear something in the earlier part of the week.

I have not gotten my hopes up at all; and I must say seeing my kids would be such an unbelievable joy that it almost seems like it's outside the realm of reality. I have no framework in which to mentally process such a possibility. No matter what the circumstances, the day I see them again will be the happiest day of my life.

I've often thought about the war motifs and metaphors in the Old Testament as a beneficial picture of spiritual warfare for present day believers, in a 2 Corinthians 10 and Ephesians 6 sort of way. As we've been going through Nehemiah on Sunday mornings at Antioch, I've been encouraged by much of the imagery of being ready for battle, with a sword on your hip, while walls are being rebuilt. And there is no fear:

"Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes" (Nehemiah 4:14 ESV).

And later, verse 20 proclaims, "Our God will fight for us."

The battle belongs to JESUS; what a comforting thought. To that end, I would like to ask you all again to call out to the Lord on behalf of my children. As 2 Corinthians 1:11 says, "You also must help us by prayer ..."

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. ... From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. -- Revelation 19:11, 15 & 16 (ESV)