Waiting for the Storm

 

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8 NIV

Today’s the day. After endless broadcasts about the approaching hurricane, Florida waits for landfall. 

            Brightly colored weather maps show possible wind intensity and inches of rain. Changing squiggly lines display the path of the monster storm. Reports of floods and tornadoes add to the dire predictions. 

            Until today, I only occasionally listened to the weather reports so I could be prepared. 

            I secured furniture and plants on my patio. Four chrysalises hung from the top of the butterfly cage and two caterpillars have plenty of milkweed. Their enclosure is next to the wall and away from rain. 

            Instead of riding out the storm alone, I will be leaving soon for my son’s home. I am confident my house would be secure but with a few days of heavy rain and raging wind, staying alone would probably be very stressful. 

            A suitcase is packed with necessary supplies, food in a bag, yarn to crochet, I-pad, phone and chargers. Insurance papers in a plastic ziplock bag, and plenty of books. Doors locked. AC turned up. Almost ready to leave. 

            Rain soaked roads are busy as people leave. Soon I will be with them as I travel to be with my family. 

            As we wait, we have no idea how the storm will affect us. Rain, wind, flooding, tornadoes… But as Christians, we know that God is in control. I can be prepared somewhat but can’t change the weather conditions. 

            Disasters normally bring people together as we have opportunities to be kind and help each other. I plan to stay connected to friends and family around the state. To give updates to those who are concerned about us. 

            Please pray for all of us in Florida. In the middle of our storms, we can rely on God. 

 

Father, be with us in our recent storms whether related to weather or other situations. Thank you for your love and care. Amen

Our Goodbyes

 

The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you; and give you peace.

Numbers 6: 24-26 NIV

As I prepared this morning to leave on a short trip, my mind filled with memories of good byes. 

            Friends and family members struggle with the reality of farewells. Even when leaving is voluntary and exciting, departing can cause sadness and uncertainty. In some instances, the departure might be forced and excruciating for everyone involved. 

            Recently, I have observed all kinds of goodbyes. Students beginning college anticipate joyfully their new stage of life but endure sadness at leaving a loving home. Too many friends are experiencing a loved one whose body remains healthy but the mind is on its own journey. In other cases, the mind is intact but the body is wasting away. 

            Recruits and long-time service members deploy as their families stay behind. Spouses decide they no longer want to be part of the marriage and leave a hurting partner. 

In every case, there is grief, perhaps mixed with joy, for those leaving and for the ones left behind. None of the situations are easy but a part of life. Even when the end of the journey seems wonderful, the process can be painful. 

In all of my goodbyes, God has been with me but the walk hasn’t been easy. 

Loving Father, give us peace and comfort as we navigate the season of saying goodbye. Amen.

Hope in Isolation

 My new book is coming out soon. It is Hope in Isolation which is a book of devotionals about being in isolation. We can be isolated in all kinds of situations. 

Here is the website. Hopeinisolation.com