Rain for a Parched Spirit

Sometimes it's good to just sit and let "it" wash over you...whatever your "it" may be. Maybe it's your favorite music, or drifting in and out of a sleepy nap, or listening to rain hit the window, or relaxing to the night sounds as twilight falls. "It" is the thing that empties you and fills you at the same time. Stress dissipates and peace saturates, and your soul is satisfied.

I needed to be replenished today. I wasn't looking for it or expecting it, but sometimes that's when the best surprises happen. My "it" happened in Nashville, Indiana, at the Common Grounds Coffee Shop, and it couldn't have been more restorative, thanks to my niece, Olivia.

Livvy is a singer and songwriter, and her primary platform is Christian music. She's been writing music and performing since she was 12 years old, but took a hiatus to get married and have a sweet baby boy. She's writing music again, and today she performed at the coffee shop in Nashville.

I had the sweetest time listening to songs that fell like rain and drenched my parched spirit. There are times in my spiritual walk when I'm inconsistent with my devotional times, and I feel distance between God and me. In those times, I soak up everything I can find to nourish my soul:  the Sunday sermon, worship at church, Christian radio, and today...Livvy's music.

Comfortable in the coffee shop, my worries and stress fell away. I held hands with my husband. I sipped a perfect drink. I remembered how much God loves me and cares when I hurt. And I was sustained, encouraged, and comforted by the power of the words God gifted to Olivia.

The process of being restored and replenished can sometimes be painful, but today it was glorious and beautiful. Thank you, Olivia.

Livvy gave me permission to share the words to one of the songs that most blessed me. I wish you could have heard them delivered beautifully as I did today, but I hope they will bless you just the same.

“It’s Okay”

Words and Music By Olivia Kay Pritchett

Verse 1

He said "I know you, child, I know your desires.

I know what sets your heart on fire.

I know your passions, I know your needs,

And this road I'm paving covers everything.

Chorus

It's okay if you're weak, I will be your strength;

It's okay if you can't speak, I can hear you anyway.

It's okay if you're crying, I will never be far;

It's okay if you're broken, I will mend your shattered heart.

Verse 2

I said I'd always be there, always at your side

But to trust isn't to understand, just follow your Guide.

Who said you'd never hurt? Who said you'd go untouched?

Make no mistake, there's pain, but not compared to My love.

Chorus

Bridge

Now that you see your brokenness,

That without me you're nothing at all;

Now that you see your imperfections,

Now you are beautiful."