Even This, Lord?!

Despite being born and raised in Wisconsin, I have never acclimated to Wisconsin winters.  I am always cold and would much prefer to hibernate on a snugly couch with a warm blanket and a book than to venture out in the frigid temperatures.  The cold seems to soak right through me and I feel defenseless against the chill.  Knowing that will help give background to this story...

Travis and I were on a date night last night and while we were driving home, I talked about how I wish I had  a winter coat that went down to my knees with a big warm hood.  I suddenly suggested, "Let's just stop by TJ Maxx and see what they have."  Travis quickly turned the other way and we headed off on an impromptu mission.

"This late in the season, they probably aren't going to have much, will they?" I mused.  "Probably not." Travis responded. 

"Well, Lord," I prayed out loud, "If you think this is something I could use, as a special blessing, I'm hoping for a long coat -to my knees, with a big warm hood... and in a color I would wear -like black."
"With fur around the hood for extra warmth," Travis added.  I laughed.

Instantly I felt a bit sheepish..."Lord, I know I really don't need  a new coat.  I am just hoping for one.  I have $50 from Christmas that I could use..."

How could I ask for a new coat when I have a perfectly good coat, there are so many people with no coat at all. 

I entered the store with eager expectation, yet feeling hesitantly restrained. We found and approached the woman's coat section and I instantly saw that it was picked over and sparse.  There were about six coats left...

Then I saw it.  It was long, it had a big hood (with fur), it was black.
I looked at the price tag: "end of season clearance"... $58.

Seriously?!  I tried it on and laughed.
I laughed out loud. 
I looked at Travis and exclaimed, "Seriously?!"
I hugged the warm hood around my face and cried, "I LOVE it!"

Thank You, Lord!

I often think that my "unnecessary" desires are not worth asking the Lord for.  How could I ask for something unnecessary for myself when I am aware of the needs of others that far surpass my own.  But I also know that I am a child of God, He is my Father.  And as a mother, I know what a joy it is to give special, unnecessary gifts and surprises to my children.  It's love. Extravagant love.  God cares about my big things, and about my little things.  It's such a good reminder and such a special gift. 
This was much more than serendipity, it was an intentional work of the Lord to remind His daughter that she matters.
He always hears me and cares, even in this.