18 Comments
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Zane Paxton's avatar

I have a sister who can’t be with our family this Christmas season. It’s bittersweet for sure, but I was encouraged in reading your essay about that.

Thank you for sharing!

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Rosa Lía Gilbert's avatar

Ahhh Zane. It’s equally hard for the person missing out as it is for those missing that person. My parents can relate to you. I’m glad it was able to speak to your situation!! 🙏🏼

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Kassi Wilson's avatar

Thank you for sharing. I’m sorry you can’t make it home this Christmas. 🎄

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Rosa Lía Gilbert's avatar

Thank you ❤️

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Kris Ann Valdez's avatar

Beautiful, heartfelt piece. So well-written, Rosa! Thank you for sharing your heart with us this season.

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Rosa Lía Gilbert's avatar

Thank you for always taking the time to read my words, friend, and for giving me the space to be vulnerable!

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Julia McMullen's avatar

Beautiful essay, friend! So sorry to hear about the loss of your wallet. I am praying it may yet be found, but also praying your holiday will be filled with supernatural peace and love regardless! 💜

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Rosa Lía Gilbert's avatar

Amen!! That is my prayer, too. Thanks for reading Julia❤️

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Melody Trowell's avatar

Oh, my sweet friend. Randy and I are praying the wallet will be found by miraculous, divine intervention. My heart aches with yours. <3 I love you!

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Rosa Lía Gilbert's avatar

Thank you for your prayers friend and for your constant encouragement. You already know you bless me. ❤️ u.

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Michelle Pehlman's avatar

This is beautiful, Rosa. Fits so well in an Advent Series reading too, as it prepares our hearts for longing. Thankful that you are safe. Will pray for your and your family.

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Allana Walker's avatar

Oh, Rosa! I'm so sorry to hear about your canceled plans. I pray that God meets you in this disappointment, and however your Christmas unfolds this year, I hope it will be filled with unexpected joy.

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Sarah Elizabeth's avatar

“Advent is only the beginning of our journey back home.” Yes yes ♥️

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Aberdeen Livingstone's avatar

I feel like a sense of longing has been one of the strongest and oldest parts of my life, and you captured so beautifully how the incarnation speaks to this experience. "Advent is only the beginning of our journey back home." So, so good. And I'm so honored my post resonated with you too! Also, I'm so sorry you can't be home this Christmas—I'll be praying that there are unexpected moments of joy and belonging even here.

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SG's avatar

So powerful, Rosa. God has gifted you with the ability to reach people through writing. Thank you for using that talent to encourage others. 🫶🏼

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Bethany Peck's avatar

This is just beautiful, Rosa! Thank you for touching these deep places - I felt seen in your words, and encouraged to entrust God with my deep longings!

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Bethany Peck's avatar

I'm also sorry for the aching you feel right now and the separation from family - may your heart be comforted this Christmas!

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Kimberly Phinney's avatar

Such beautiful, open-hearted work. It was a joy to work with you as a friend and fellow writer. I am so blessed--we all are--to have you as a part of TWBTO community and in this blessed Advent Series.

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