Awaken Wonder, You’re Called to Love

Have you ever lost the wonder?
The quiet awe that once made loving God feel simple—and alive?

On a cold December morning in 2001, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper something that would change my life.

“You will have a baby this year.”

I sat there in shock. I wasn’t trying to get pregnant or adopt. I wasn’t even sure I wanted to be a mom. But my heart whispered back, Hineni—“Here I am.”

That one word became my yes before I knew the details. It was a surrendered love, full of wonder, fear, and trust all at once. I couldn’t see what God was doing, but I knew He was near.

Months later, that whisper became a miracle—a baby placed in our arms on Mother’s Day. A story written only God could have authored.

When Mary heard the angel’s words, she asked, “How can this be?”
And then—before the plan made sense—she said,

“May it be to me according to your word.” — Luke 1:38

That’s Hineni. It’s the heart posture of love before clarity, obedience before understanding. It’s wonder meeting surrender.

You and I are called to that same love. Before you’re called to lead, serve, or build—you’re called to love.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” — Matthew 22:37

Loving God isn’t about perfection or knowing every step ahead. It’s trusting His voice when it doesn’t make sense, and remembering that every yes—no matter how small—echoes in eternity.

Where might God be inviting you to say Hineni again?
To love Him with the same wide-eyed wonder you once had?

Soul Check-In: What would it look like to respond to God’s whisper this week with a simple, “Here I am”?

With Joy,
Maria
Because God always writes the best stories …

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