So many disturbing things have happened this week in our little area of Tabarre. There are some really awful photos and videos circulating. Those things are real. They are true.

This photo is also real. It's also true.

It was also taken Sunday evening in close proximity to the terrible things. We celebrated Hudson’s 30th birthday together.

Joy and sorrow. Intermingled. More so every day, it seems.

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while.

These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold.

So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world."

I Peter 1:6-7

There is great joy ahead.

What a promise.

Even so, come, Lord Jesus.