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Last
weekend was all about slowing down in the country, relaxing with family, and
saying thank you. I don’t often go upstate to see my sister, brother-in-law and
nephew, so I savor these special moments. When I stepped out their door, all I
saw was farmland and rolling hills. Nothing seemed to move in Lansing, NY.
Peace and quiet. Rays of sunlight cast over God’s creation. The world relaxed.
But
I did have one plan. I had the address of the church that a group of
Samaritan’s Purse volunteers attend—the next town over from Lansing. Wouldn’t it be great to visit their church? They
came all the way to our house to help rebuild a few months ago. I wouldn’t get
this opportunity again for a long time. Of course Saturday night I had the
worst stomach pains I can remember, couldn’t sleep, and woke up late on Sunday.
My plan seemed hopeless. I didn’t even consider going, thinking I might throw
up, but Dad said, “Why don’t we go to that church…even if we’re late you can
thank the Pastor for sending the group.”
He
was right. “Okay, let’s go.” I prayed for my stomach to be calm for at least
the duration of the service.
The
church was a refinished barn, so pretty and unusual, perfect with a mountain
view. We got to hear the last ten minutes of the message…then, reminiscent of
being five years old and painfully shy, Dad nudged me to raise my hand and
stand up. I discovered how hard my heart could pound. The man in front of me
turned around and asked if I wanted to say something. I nodded, not sure of
what this something was that I wanted to say. No turning back now.
He
spoke to the pastor as they waved me to come to the microphone. Oh,no. With a quick prayer for help,
somehow I stood in front of these people, introduced myself and told a quick
version of my story. I explained how our house was damaged from Hurricane Sandy
and a group from this church came to help us rebuild. They were a part of our
healing. I wanted to thank them and their church.
Even
better, I got to hug some of the volunteers who were there and talk with them
again. One family knew my sister’s family. They use the calves on their farm in
a 4-H Club competition. This is not just a small world, it’s a world that God
watches over and uses to bring people together for His purpose.
My
stomach cooperated for the time I needed, and I slept a few needed hours after
to recuperate. It was a good day…an
unexpected, blessed, joyous day.
“Trust
in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all
your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs
3:5-6
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