I noticed it today for the first time, maybe because I was going through one of those lonely spells we all feel as human beings, that “I’m the only one facing _____” brand of self-perpetuated solitude that is usually a lie but searing nonetheless. I noticed it when I read his words–he said that he wouldn’t drink the wine again until he could drink it with his companions. That was when I saw the continuity, remembering that he refused the wine later, when it was mixed with a painkiller and could have been a source of relief. And once again, reading the declaration and the holding true, I was reminded of the one who keeps his promises in every single way.

Later, I faced the stress of a workday and allowed it to hang my eyelids heavy, blocking my view of what’s most important. I took a walk around the block, setting out alone like I preferred. A moment of quiet, eyes opened and turned upward, and things finally clicked into place. Grace is a quiet companion, known less to break doors open than to wait patiently for a turned gaze. Light comes in and shows me all the places where I haven’t trusted, then love reminds me that wherever I am faithless is where he is faithful. Ever-patient, always waiting to drink the wine with me. I circled the block and arrived where I started, no longer alone.