Yeah...you have questions,here's the answers:
A. Yes,on purpose
B. No, I didn't lose my mind
C. I was entirely consistent to my character and have no "stays in Vegas" stories
D. In fact, I never once used my big girl I'd and was never without the company of a lovely 9 &12 year old.
E. And yes, I had fun (mostly)
I am still sorting through adjectives. I was uncomfortable, shocked and exhausted from the amount of people, the extent of their life choices and the insane amount of seizure-inducing lights that cluttered the strip for the 4.5 hours it took me to gawk at giant buildings, four floors of m&m's, miniaturized NYC and incredible acrobats from Kenya. I also got to walk through a glass tunnel that had lions laying on top..pretty dope! I had a headache trying to read the map, an instant summer tan from two hours at the pool, exema galore, and an over abundance of people watching..
But after some contemplation , two things really rang true for me due to this Vegas vacation..
First, I'm sooo grateful to belong to the Lord, ravaged by His grace and provided an escape from the corruption that is in the world through lust. Please don't hear this as condescension , I say this in all humility- I am so grateful to be elected. So thankful for the hope and purpose I have in Christ. I can not ignore the depravity, loneliness, on the prowl like wild beasts with no self control, the little to no conviction, the vain grasps at vitality and acceptance that were so evident. But from it I am reminded to not waste my life, to not neglect the beauty of Christ's ability to sustain and keep me and fill all in all.
Secondly, I also received a glimpse of family and it's powerful place as a gospel tool. I have a family within a Family that, ironically is not biological whatsoever! They are special,obviously, because they put up with my nonsensical antics and with the exception of a touch of mockery, they show me nothing but love! I am attached! I don't know that I've ever known or been known by anyone like I know and am known by this family. It is a privilege. It is like God's consistent reminder of His kindness leading me to repentance... I feel unworthy to be a part of their family. And while I know it costs them, they graciously & generously extend themselves and their whole lives to include me and love me. Perhaps I am blinded by love, but they show me Christ by consistently mirroring His unmerited favor toward me.
They aren't perfect, as are none of us, but they strive to love others as they are moved by the example of God's love for them. They are altogether admirable and kind, occasionally intimidating and pretty much always right..
They really really humble me, though I know it's not their intention. They bless my soul and provoke me to love&good works!
So yeah, I pretty much HATE Las Vegas, but I wouldn't have traded this weekend for cool breezes and Thai food every day...believe me, that's saying something!
Thank You, God for Your Providence:)
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