May 21
it’s been an uneventful week. I’m still working on getting caught up on paperwork, cleaning the house, sorting through Norm’s things and trying to make sure I visit with friends.
I went to church on Sunday. In the last nine months I’ve only gone a few times. Being able to watch the service on the computer has a down side, it gets easy to stay home and not attend in person. Once the habit is broken, it takes effort to return to sanctuary and worship with the congregation.
It was too easy to stay home. I had to decide to go, no excuses. At every step of getting ready, I had to say, “I’m going to church today.” As I got closer to the church, the tears began to fall and would not stop. In the parking lot, I sat for a few minutes to compose myself and dry my tears.
I was greeted by Esther, a woman who has walked the road of widowhood before me. She gave me a hug and said, “I don’t want to make you cry, but I want to give you a hug.” Being alone, one doesn’t realize how much a daily hug is missed. Tears came to my eyes, but didn’t fall.
As we began to sing, I couldn’t help but cry. All the songs dealt with Jesus being the anchor of our souls and lives. One song in particular mentioned the phrase “You are not alone.” Each day I live in a world where I am alone, and yet I am not alone. Sometimes I couldn’t sing because of the tears, some songs I could sing and worship with the congregation. it’s not the same to sing at home with the online recording.
I need to stay in community with my church.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25
I am thankful for my church which has been a big support over the last nine months, even when I haven’t shown up.
I pray for some friends who are struggling with cancer. Don, who had an operation today to remove the cancer, hopefully resulting in healing and no more need for treatment. Donna, getting ready for her final round of chemo. And Mark, who has a cancer that cannot be treated by traditional means. The Lord continues to hold each of them in his hand, and has a plan for them, even through this struggle.
I rejoice that Christ remains my anchor when everything else is out of control.
TRICIA LATHROP 