Random thought # 1 – Has the rage over the “debacle at the border” dissipated already? True, I only watched about 10-15 minutes of cable news as I prepared my breakfast, but during that time there was no mention of the continuing plight of the thousands of children separated from their parents by the government’s immigration policies. Both the conversation and the scrolling red banner at the bottom of the screen referenced the latest trade war issues and the potential threat to the economy. Maybe I’m not being fair. Perhaps after I turned off the set, the very next segment dealt with the nation’s disgrace in its treatment of children and the ramifications of governmental ineptitude. Maybe. Perhaps when I tune in later this evening, the displaced children will be center stage again. Perhaps.
Random thought # 2 – When Earl and I made the decision to relocate out of state fifteen years ago, it took us two years to prepare for it. Once the die had been cast, we set about the tasks such a decision required. I recall “boxes” became our new “best friends.” Now my life circumstances dictate yet another relocation, albeit without Earl (the Lord called him home ten years ago). We had always planned one last move together to either Dallas or Kalamazoo, but for His reasons, God chose otherwise. Any lingering trepidations I might have had regarding this venture were laid to rest when recently I made my first visit to a local storage facility to renew my relationship with my old friends, “boxes.” As I was paying for my purchases, the owner said, “I have something I want to give you. I don’t do this for everyone; only when I feel the spirit prompting me to and it’s just something about your spirit that says you’ll receive it.” At this point let me be honest! My first thought was that she was going to throw in the wrapping paper or the tape free of charge!! I know. I know. Shame on me. Remember, I’m still a work in progress.!!! Anyway, what she held out was one of those little boxes that contain scripture cards. She said simply, “Take one.” I did and when I read it, I knew at that moment that this decision to move back home, to the place where it all began, was being orchestrated by my Lord. On one side of the card are the words of Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for God is with you, He will strengthen you. He will help you. He will uphold you with His righteous right hand.” And on the other side: “Having hope will give you courage. You will be protected and will rest in safety.” Job 11:18
My experiences in the realm of discarding. sorting, boxing, cleaning and staging a house for sale have prepared me to do the same in this season of my life. This after all will be my fourth move from one house to another. My faith in God and His little and big reminders that I am not alone, that He’s got my back sustain me. Life is for the living and as long as He so allows, I will live it to His glory. Get ready Big D!
Love. Joy. Peace.