A Resilient Soul (11/10/2023)

Yesterday, I had an appointment. When I arrived, I discovered that I’d written the time down incorrectly; I was actually a half hour early. Oh, well, I thought to myself, let me make the most of this unexpected “free time.” I picked up a magazine to catch up on what others are talking about when a woman came in and sat down next to me. And we struck up a conversation. I learned that she’d been widowed unexpectedly. As she shared about her struggles and challenges to provide for her three children and herself, she also gave me a most refreshing and inspiring glimpse into the resiliency of love, strengthened by faith, buoyed by hope. God writes straight with crooked lines; I wasn’t really “early” but right on time to encounter this woman and learn from her through the power of the Spirit.

One thing that shone through her sharing was the importance of her relationship with the LORD and the support of her faith community. I found myself longing to be able to support others in challenging times, knowing from her story how valuable that support is. I also found myself wondering if my faith would have been as strong as hers if I found myself challenged as she had been.

Her joy stood out. She shared about her children and grandchildren. It has been over 30 years since she was widowed, and she draws great joy from the growth in both size and character of her family. I found myself wishing that I could bring that joy to others that I know are hurting, that are struggling. I can share my joy, I realized, but only the LORD can restore the joy. I prayed that those struggling would encounter the LORD and experience the LORD’s love as this woman had and as I have.

Last evening as I reflected on my day, I thanked the LORD for my mistake and for the grace the LORD poured out upon me in the form of an encounter with this woman of deep faith, profound courage, and lived love. I thanked the LORD for my life and the many blessings, undeserved blessings, that I have received. I begged the LORD to help me use those blessings for good and for others.

As we go forward, journeying in this life, let us be open to the appearance and gifts of others along our way. Let us welcome surprises and take in the wonder the LORD sets before us not only in creation but in one another. Let us commit to supporting one another along the way because heaven truly does know we all need that. And let us pray for an increase in faith, hope and love that makes us resilient even in difficult and challenging times.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.