GOD WITH US

Sometimes the only way we know God is with us is when we find ourselves walking in the shoes of those who’ve gone before us.
When my daughter announced she and the kids were moving to New York to be with her estranged husband, I was devastated. The harder I tried to dissuade her, the more determine she was to go. So with tears in my eyes, I kissed my grandchildren good-bye, and made my daughter promise me that if things didn’t turn out right, she’d call me, and her uncle and I would come and get them.
I spent this past week vacationing with my daughter and grandchildren. While there, I got up early one morning and went outdoors to pray. As I sat in the backyard surrounded by towering trees, the melodious sounds of blue jays and cardinals, and a lone squirrel jumping from one tree to another; I was reminded of a time long ago when my children were young, I had packed up and moved to Louisiana to be with my husband. My mother had tried to dissuade me, but I too had been determined to go. My brother had made me promise that if things didn’t go right, call him, and he’d come and get us.
Just as God was with me and my children, I began to see Him with my daughter and her children. Two days after arriving in New York, she found a place to live. The schools my grandchildren attend far exceed the educational opportunities they had in Chicago; and they are being exposed to different cultures and peoples living together in community. My daughter is learning to trust God for herself, and to lean on Him in crisis instead of leaning on me.
The Bible speaks of a son, Isaac, who walked in his father’s (Abraham) footsteps and discovered that the same God who was with his father, is now with him. He had traveled to the same place, propagated the same lie, experienced God’s forgiveness, friendship, divine protection, guidance, and material blessings (Genesis 20:1-17; 26:1-11).
Whose shoes have you found yourself walking in? Could it be that God is reaching out to you, to initiate friendship with you?

Wheeeeeeeeeeee! 2011 Blizzard

Don’t you just love the snow? I haven’t had this much pleasure since the Blizzard of 1967. I was 12 years old back then. The snow drifts had reached the second floor of our home. My brothers were thrilled to be able to climb out of their bedroom window and walk down the biggest snow mountain they’d ever seen. One of my older brothers shoveled his way out of the front door making his version of what he called an igloo. School was closed, no homework---- pure bliss.

Although I’m older this time around (much older), I’m enjoying the snow storm of 2011. I’ve even personalized this wonderful fluffy white snow as a gift from God just for me!

My days are so filled with work, followed by ministry responsibilities, and weekend extended family care; that my needs, and "Sabbath" time in the presence of the Lord are often neglected.

This blizzard has allowed me to catch my breath-----to slow down and reflect on God’s grace and His love for me. I have enjoyed unhurried time in prayer and study of His Word throughout the day. I’ve been able to catch up on writing assignments; and even partake in some creative art activities.

Hopefully the roads and the parking lot of my apartment complex will be cleared soon and I can get to work tomorrow. But if I can’t, I’ll continue to enjoy God’s gracious gift to me.