I have realized as of late that the Lord answers prayers often in the most unexpected ways. His ways are sometimes not our own but they truly bring much more joy than you or I could ever fathom. I admit I always struggle with how to start a blog entry. I always fear I never have the right words or most captivating line to entice the reader to continue- much like an author uses in a novel- but I suppose sometimes those things may not be completely necessary. So for now, I am left starting with a simple truth that the Lord is so good and I am so blessed.
The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of sorts. I have not been feeling entirely great and between doctor visits and tests I have altogether neglected writing but I have learned much through this time and as I type these thoughts out, I am reminded again of the sovereignty of the Lord and the way he provides despite our questioning. Although being sick is not the best feeling I have had time to rest, read his word, and cling to the truths in a new way. On days where I could not eat, I learned what it meant to be filled with strength and joy that comes only from the Lord. As I visited the hospital several times this week for tests I was filled with peace that surpasses all understanding as I spent time with the Lord in prayer asking for answers that no doctor was able to produce. I admit some days I had no desire to smile or talk to the nurses or other patients around me but I realized something this week- something completely lacking profundity but a good word I needed to hear- Its not about me! I am sure this is not a deep concept that plagued the minds of great thinkers such as Aristotle or St. Augustine, but they were human so perhaps it did. Regardless, I realized that for this time I had the ability to share the hope and love of God with the nurses, doctors, and patients around me whether it was simply through a smile or a conversation about my heart for missions and ministry.
I wish I could say I realized this on my own, but it occurred to me as I was sitting in a waiting room one morning next to a strong woman I admire deeply, my mother. As Cissy and I were gazing at the news reports on the television and flipping aimlessly through magazines, a mentally handicapped woman walked by clearly confused and distressed. She walked outside the entrance of the building and waited for a few moments. My mother immediately stood up, walked outside and talked to the woman as everyone in the full waiting room watched to see what would happen next. Apparently the bus service had not arrived to pick the lady up so Cissy did what she does best and took charge. She found the number, called the bus driver, talked to the lady, and had her on the bus in five minutes. As she entered the building again, an older man in the corner spoke up and said "Young woman, that was the sweetest thing I have seen. The world needs more people like you!" Although Im convinced they all thought this angel was my sister (which probably made her day), I can honestly say I have never been more proud to call her my mom. This woman truly lives out 1 John 4 as Peter tells us to love one another, for love comes from God. In her simple action, I saw the importance of seeing the people around us and taking the advantage of the opportunities in our path to serve the Lord. After several weeks I am feeling so much better and although I have no full explanation for it, I know it is completely God! I do not regret a moment of feeling sick, for even in my weakness He was made stronger. I am incredible thankful though that I am doing so much better.
I cannot write without mentioning the wonderful people I am blessed to call dear friends and although ill never be able to mention them all, here are a small few who have brightened my day in so many ways and made my life so much sweeter.
My sister Heidi- a woman I am incredibly proud of and thankful for. She is so strong and it has been a blessing to be home for the summer and spend time with her.
CTM girls: Jordan, Laura, Maggie, Abby, and Christine. From hilarious group texts to lunch dates these ladies are some of my best friends. I cannot wait to all reunite in a few short months.
Then there's Amanda who truly gets this Jesus guy. She has such a heart for people and every phone conversation and text message leaves me encouraged and challenged beyond belief. The Lord is doing incredible things through her and I am blessed to know her. She told me about this book called Tempted and Tried and I'm reading it right now. You should definitely read it! It is rocking my world- in a good way :)
My sweet friend Shannon from 4th east is now on a mission trip to Israel which is so incredible cool! We both share a love of coffee (ok maybe mine is an addiction) and quaint eating places. My favorite memories of our friendship includes late night chats in my dorm room, standing in the hallway laughing hysterically, and Saturday brunch at Original Pancake House downtown. Fun fact: we are kind of the same person and usually same the same words at the same time in a conversation. Its actually pretty hilarious.
The Lord has blessed me greatly with my internship at church this summer. Although this will take another entry entirely, Im so blessed to work with Sarah Benson- a girl who has a heart set on serving the Lord. Its so beautiful to see her wrestle with what that means for her life and seek to glorify Him with everything. Her honesty and compassion for people is awesome and I love our talks about what it means to live as a Christian in America. She has such a heart for middle school girls and is so gifted at encouraging and teaching them.
I could talk for ages about my dear friends Becca and Bradford. We are like the three musketeers- but cooler. Bradford is incredibly gifted at everything musical and its so neat to see how He uses these gifts to glorify the Lord. He challenges me to worship God in every aspect of my life and live boldly for Him. Becca, Miss Texas Pride, is the most encouraging person on the face of the earth. Whether I have had a rough day or just need advice, she always knows what to say. These friends have spoiled me beyond belief but I appreciate them greatly.
Lastly there's my best friend Teddie, who I have known from the days when low pony tails, middle parts, and bermuda shorts were in style. This summer, we fulfilled a two year dream and went to the RC Cola Moon Pie Festival in Bell Buckle (Pretty sure time instantly stops once you enter this town- its the greatest).
