Our daughter was recently on stage for her Christmas dance recital and it brought back this memory.

I had forgotten to warn her about the bright stage lights beforehand, which meant she wouldn’t be able to see us in the audience. In an instant, I saw her searching eyes and anxiety. Although we could see her just fine, all she saw was darkness.

I wanted to shout out: “I’m here, sweetheart! I SEE YOU!” but that would have been inappropriate. It broke my heart and she was near tears.

How often is this me when I’m talking to God? Jesus, I need you! Do you see me? I can’t see you!

At the end of the dance, the stage lights went off and the house lights came up. My husband and I sprung from our seats and waved frantically until Olivia's eyes caught ours. Relief washed over her face the second she spotted us.

We can’t see Him yet. But we trust that He’s there.

 Bring those houselights up soon, Lord
-Sarah