The Window Washer

I recently compared this world to a dirty window. The rain runs down catching on the particles of dust and dirt; forming a thick inescapable film. Sin, death, injustice, tears, pain. Raindrops and mud. But that is not all. There is a hand that traces a design onto the mud of the window. The words that saved the world, the words that save me again and again:

There is a Window Washer. And He is coming.

Do you know the Window Washer? Do you have a hope that is greater than the night?

My name is Josie Praytor and I know the Window Washer. I believe in a light that the darkness just can’t put out. He loved me, even after I had helped ruin the pure glass of His window. He loved me so much that He died for me so that I wouldn’t have to. And that’s not all: He is coming soon! And He will wash the window. His water will cleanse, not clog. He will wipe it all clean and it will be beautiful.

If you know the Window Washer than you and I must draw the words in the dirt. Words of Hope and healing.

Words of Wonder

Sometimes it’s hard to live in this world! It can be so depressing and wearisome. And while it’s very wrong to ignore the suffering, if we look only at the darkness, we cannot fight for the light to break through! Jesus, the Window Washer is the only One who can give light and hope. Run to Him when all you can see is the darkness.

God does not leave us here, staring at the dirty window, souls downcast and weary. He lifts us up to fly on wings like eagles. So, see the pain and mourn for it. But don’t forget about the hope that we have.

One way God has helped me through all sorts of difficult seasons is through books. Here are a few that show beauty in brokeness: I’ll try to keep the synopses shorter!

The Lord of the Rings: by J.R.R. Tolkein

It might seem strange to put this fantasy masterpiece at the top of my list. But the wise and insightful words scattered throughout are those that have encouraged me most when feeling discouraged about the sad state of the world. Look up the synopsis and I highly encourage that you settle down by the window and be whisked away on an adventure you will never forget.

Stepping Heavenward: Elizabeth Prentiss

I am reading this priceless book now acutally. Stepping Heavenward is the so beautifully real memoir of a girl and woman who struggles and who triumphs. Katy pours out all the feelings and questions that you are afraid to ask. This is such a good glimpse into a life of faith as a flawed human being. Flawed, but loved beyond all imagining.

The Book Thief: Markus Zusak

This book was one of those stories that just reached out and touched my heart with a pang. It’s a WW2 book but it’s so much more than that. It’s about life and love and pain and dancing in the rain. It must speak for itself. Content warning: being set during a war there is a bit of gore and also some language. I think the book worth it but be sure to get consent and be aware.

An Old Fashioned Girl: Louisa May Alcott

Polly is one of those characters that strengthen my heart to conquer my everyday trials and woes with dignity and beauty. Lousia May Alcott also always has that effect on me. You will walk away from this simple, beautiful story with your heart encouraged.

Daring to Hope: Katy Davis Major

You must of course read the previous book: ‘Kisses from Katie’ first. 🙂 This book is so good. It is the continuation of the true story of Katie who lives in Uganda with thirteen adopted girls and a thriving ministry. It deals with the question: how do we continue to hope when we don’t get the answer we asked for?

Anne of Avonlea:

“I think that the violets are little snips of the sky that fell down when the angels cut out holes for the stars to shine through. And the buttercups are made of old sunshine. And the sweet peas will be butterflies when they go to heaven.” ~ Anne of Avonlea

Must I say more?

There are many more and I can assure you that they will pop up their heads in this blog sometime soon. But that is it for now. Dance in the rain, imagine, listen to music and tell stories and hope. Draw the message in the rain on the window.

“these things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation, but take courage, I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33