This spring North Texas was inundated with rain. Accompanying the torrential rain was roaring thunder and ferocious lightning. Sadly, one of my majestic oak trees was struck by lightning.
As I now look at the window. Gazing at a tree slowly dying. I am reminded that sometimes death come when you least expect it.
Life is on cruise control. Yes, there are dips and potholes on the road. Forcing you to slow down.
Spiritually, you are doing everything you have been taught. Your relationship with the Lord has never been better.
Then one day. Bam! You are blindsided! Cancer. War. Pink slip. Divorce. Infertility. Lightning.
You do not reach my age without many up close and personal encounters with death. Thankfully, I know I am not alone when death comes knocking. The Lord is there. Welcoming me into His protective and loving arms.
He alone is my refuge— my place of safety. He is my God, and I trust Him. He will rescue me from every trap and protect me from deadly disease. He will cover me with His feathers. He will shelter me with His wings. His faithful promises are my armor and protection. I will not be afraid of the terrors of the night. Nor the arrow that flies in the day. I will not dread the disease that stalks in darkness. Nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at my side. Though ten thousand are dying around me. These evils will not touch me. (Psalm 91:2-7 adaptation)
Like I told the arborist. At least the lightning did not hit my house. (The tree being only thirty yards from my house.)
His response? You must be an optimist.
Yes, I am an optimist! Knowing what the devil intended for my harm. God will turnaround for my good. Of that I am sure!
Be a VOICE in the deafening sound of sameness!
letsloveothers 