It has been awhile since my last post. Much has happened with the illness of my Dad and the continued decline of my Mom's battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Just when we thought things were calming down, illness struck our family again and it has been an interesting and challenging year so far.
It was perfect timing. His perfect timing. With so much that has been happening in our lives recently, I have certainly seen God leading us, strengthening us and answering our many prayers. When I have no answers, He does. When I have concerns, He cares. When I am weak, He carries me. When I am uncertain, He gives peace. When I am discouraged, He gives hope.
Today was no exception. It wasn't an easy day. It wasn't a horrible day. It wasn't my favorite day. But it was another day. A gift. A day to live, breathe, love, work, pray and wonder how everything will work out on many levels. He is in control. He is powerful. He is present. Yet...in my very human nature, I kept trying to make list after list of what, when, where and how life should be handled. I felt like I had "to do my part and much more" and soon realized that I am totally unable to handle all that faces us each day and in every situation.
When the mail arrived, a package was delivered. Totally unexpected. Totally surprising. No specific reason. Yet a package came from a very dear friend. I couldn't imagine what it contained. Christmas was over. Birthday is months away. So why was a package sent in the middle of winter?
As I opened it, I realized God's timing was once again perfect, precious and provisional. My dear friend had sent a collection of devotion books for the entire year. Although January is over, I decided to begin there before diving into February's selections. My heart was touched deeply as I read the front cover. "Do everything you can and leave the rest to God." I knew this in my head but my heart desperately needed to be reminded of this essential truth. How timely. How perfect. How like God!
So on a cool winter's night, with so much on my heart and mind, I received another beautiful "nod from God." I wonder....does He chuckle as He watches me make my countless lists, notes and plans? I wonder...does He do as parents often do and think..."Let her realize that it's not all up to her to handle this alone. I'm still here." I wonder...does He wonder if I will ever get it right? Of course, He knows I won't. But I wonder...how does God who is so amazing, forgiving and gracious...still love me? I will wonder that the rest of my life. Yet one thing is for sure. Today was no ordinary day. Actually, no day is an ordinary day. For He is always with us. His love continues to surround us. His reminders are always in front of us if we just take time to look, listen and learn. I am amazed. I am grateful. I am never alone.<3~thl
