Dear Suzy

In 5 days you filled my heart more than I ever could have asked. It was just by chance that we picked your home to stay and now I realize it was not by chance at all.

When you greeted us that first night your smile and hug made me want to cry. I felt so loved. When you hug, you pull people in. It’s a heart to heart hug. And you were so delighted to see us. It was as if we were long time friends meeting again. Instead of strangers introducing for the first time.

I couldn’t wait for 10am the next morning and our plan to have Turkish coffee on the terrace.

As the sun beamed down and we looked out over the water together we quickly realized that we had a bond deeper than flesh.

One sip, two sip, three sip more. I can feel the tingle as the caffeine hits my lips. It’s the most delicious coffee I have ever tasted.

We were supposed to talk about the city and highlights of things to do. But the conversation was quickly detoured by a quick Bible study. You shared a truth that we were currently experiencing.

“Ruth 1 - My home is your home.

I have received agape love. The highest love. And that is what I give to you.”

We were being loved with agape love.

That’s what I needed. I could have been content to stay on your porch. Watch you put out the laundry, tend the garden and take care of the animals.

But it was even better to see you after the adventure. To come home to you and awake to you.

Thank you. For opening your home. For opening your heart.

Your home is my home. Your God is my God.