August 27
I got lost on my way to church. I decided to take the back road in to avoid a left turn across heavy traffic. The problem: when I made that decision, I was not where I needed to be. It involved an extra turn, that I did not take.
It took several miles to realize my mistake, at which time, other than returning to my decision point, I had no idea how to get to church from where I was. So I turned on the GPS and entered an area I had yet to explore.
I turned onto a road and saw a large stone wall, the type one sees around castles. And I thought, this looks intriguing. And as I drove by, I discovered a sign, Millennium Manor, and visiting hours. How could Norm and I have missed this place in our ten years living here? I looked it up, it’s a castle some man built, a place Norm and I would have visited had we known.
I’ve felt lost without Norm. I’m trying to find my direction and focus without Norm in the picture. I miss his advice, comments, his companionship on adventures…his laugh.
Surprisingly, this little side trip gave me hope. Being lost is only temporary, I can rely on the Lord to lead me in the way I need to go. And though I no longer have my partner in adventures, the adventure is not yet over for me. It’s all just going to look different.
Where’s the joy?
I am thankful for the modern GPS, it has gotten me out of many lost situations. I am thankful that God provided a life GPS with His Word.
I pray for wisdom as I walk this new path, not only for me but for my friend Kym, who has recently become a widow.
I rejoice in God my Savior who has provided all that I need to walk with Him.
Where’s the joy? it’s the hope of the adventure yet to come.
The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup;
You support my lot.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.
I will bless the Lord who has counseled me;
Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night.
I have set the Lord continually before me;
Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices;
My flesh also will dwell securely.
For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol;
Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay.
You will make known to me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
Psalm 16:5–11
TRICIA LATHROP 