“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
(Isaiah 43:1-2 NIV)
Last weekend we travelled out of state to be a part of the graduation celebrations of two nieces. For me, the weekend was its normal mix of long car rides and audiobooks in the car, various family relationships at open houses and other events, and the comfort of coming home to a familiar setting where I have deep roots. Overall, the weekend was “successful,” as we attended “All the Things” and saw “All the People.” Probably my favorite part of the weekend, though, was something so simple I could have done it anywhere. I laid in the grass in my parents’ yard and read a book.
The weather was perfect – warm, sunny, breezy – and I was taken back to when I was a kid and would run around outside barefoot. It was beautiful to lay in the grass, absorbing the memories and present joy of simple things like a good book, a beautiful blue sky, and sunshine. Those minutes were a needed pause before more busyness of the weekend and next weekend’s wedding festivities. Could I do this in my own backyard? Yes, of course. But sometimes (or often – if we are aware!) God meets us wherever we are in this exact moment to give us what we need. I needed a break from the busy; he gave that to me.
I pray that today whatever you need will be met by your loving God. May he use wherever, whoever, and whatever to speak to your spirit, I love you Child. I am with you. I am guiding you, comforting you, strengthening you. You are never alone. You are precious to me and I love you.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
Cush and Seba in your stead.
[Y]ou are precious and honored in my sight,
and … I love you. (Isaiah 43:3-4 NIV)
God,
Thank you for walking us through the days and times that feel hard – when we feel as if we will drown or be burned up – for we know that you hold us in the palms of your hands. Meet us in the challenging places with Holy Spirit’s Presence and Peace. Give us sacred places, experiences of you, conversations with others, and whatever else we need. Remind us that we are precious and deeply loved by you, we ask in Jesus’s name, AMEN.
