The opening piece I wrote for my sermon....

My children leave traces of themselves all around.  Littered about the house.  Doodles in my sketchbook, stickers on my dresser, muddy footprints in the kitchen, mittens and coats everywhere, and cheerios as far as the eye can see.  Tangible pieces strewn about as if to say.... I am here, see me, hear me, touch me, love me.  The traces on my heart run much deeper.  I am forever changed by their sticky little fingers, gooey kisses and lazy morning snuggles.  I see the world differently now, they have changed my vantage point, my understanding of God, of love, of joyful sacrifice, and forever left a mark upon my heart which cannot be erased.