I still remember the pile of books I checked out at the library when I was pregnant with my first child. Three kids later through toddler years, special needs, home education and health challenges, I can’t tell you many how many of those piles I’ve read. And I’m grateful. As a 5 on the Enneagram and a chronic researcher, it’s hard to find someone who believes more in the value of books. Yet as I watch my kids running around the house, I’m amazed at how many times I’ve leaned on those books so much so that I almost missed the most important thing right under my nose: friendship with the Holy Spirit.

When I was younger, I often wished that I could have been like the disciples and walked with Jesus arm in arm. What I would do to watch His shoulders shake with hysterical laughter or fold into His arms like John when I needed comfort.