Meditations from the Morning Watch

One by one, at the tough places, Paul obtained help of God. And because he didn’t quit, Paul could continue.

The disciples were downcast.  Because their expectation wasn’t met in the manner which they thought it should have been, they totally missed the better thing, the bigger purpose which the Lord had for them. As I wrote some notes in my Bible reading journal, I had to stop and consider if perhaps I was also missing the purpose of something in my own life . . .

Recent weeks have been very tough with my Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome symptoms … But my reading was so blessed and this reminder of God’s faithful goodness brings me up even while I continue to struggle with this flare up of symptoms.

A small diversion from my “regularly scheduled” Old Testament reading has yielded a rich lesson this early morning.  We have had some very difficult and trying days piling up, so I really felt the need for a boost of New Testament grace as opposed to another round of Old Testament law. Second Corinthians was an excellent choice.

Reading from this “ lesson book”, the wild, untamed countryside, David received tutelage in the difficulties, troubles, and hardships of his life.  These lessons instruct me too, as I sometimes confront the giant of loneliness.

But tears welled up in my eyes when I came to Matthew 6:19-21 and I considered my true treasures — the ones in my heart, the ones which no person or circumstance or change of location can take from me. 

As I meditate on this incredible exhortation, my heart cries out, “How Lord?  How can I be patient IN tribulation?”

I will not fear, though the earth be removed, and mountains cast into the sea.  Because of the sure promises of God, though the mountains shake, the waters roar, and the waves crash over my head, I will not fear.

We had only been in Sierra Leone for a few months and were still renting a house on the outskirts of the capital city of Freetown.  I so enjoyed the upper veranda built on the roof of that house.  What a vantage point!  There, with a cup of tea, my Bible, and a journal, I would unobtrusively enter into the daily lives of the people without their knowing.

. . . I see the light in the eyes of those upon whom understanding is breaking forth.  One day, Father, my heart will cease from its weeping and rejoice when we, together with them, are raised to your glorious harvest home.  The time is short.