Chicago Exhaling.

It seems that this city really never stops breathing out. There is a constant sense of motion, even in the late hours when you justify staying up later because there are still cars speeding around.
As I look out the window, several things are on my heart, only a handful I have the capacity to write about.
Tonight, The city is hissing as the Taxis drive down Chicago Avenue through a seemingly endless puddle. Today was a sprinkling day. Not too much rain, but much moisture. I ran in it, which was nice. I love to run in this city. As I pass the hundreds of people, I start to forget what it's like to run back at home. The trees have all spread out and are hiding mostly in parks, where sculptures and children in uniforms fill the stand. The Hancock building is shyly hiding tonight, which makes me smile. I haven't seen it's top for a few hours.
So, in this City where you never feel the same, God has been moving. Scripture has been stirring my heart. The Pentateuch has been whispering love stories to me. I don't know how I ended up here. In this place where everyone seems to know what's going on. Sometimes, I meet up with a confused freshman or a panic-faced wanderer, but for the most part I have to figure things out day-by-day.
It's funny that here, in the middle of classes and working, I have found so much love in Hymns. So much of my joy is stemming from spending time simply in His presence, repeating the words a kindred soul wrote before my grandparents were even a thought.
There seems to be so much to learn. So many things to remember. So many friends to spend time with. So many words to write, stairs to climb (especially on the top floor!) and notes to hum as I pass from class to class.
God is calling me above the sounds of pavement and laughing and horns. God is singing to me as I settle into Him. Tonight is a night that simply fits the title of this blog.
I so Love Him.
May you find yourself in the middle of a place where God is still the center. May you silence the background noise. May you understand that you are loved beyond anything that you could ever hope.
In Chicago, we say that you should always be aware. Watch behind you. Carry a whistle.
So, I do.
And in Chicago, I am aware of Christ. I see him surrounding me. And I am not afraid anymore.

Grace and Peace.