By Cheryl Saur of St. Charles, Missouri USA
At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed…
I could not keep my head above water! I was about eight or nine, and I knew how to swim, but something kept pulling me underwater. I would kick to the surface just to be pulled down again by something wrapped around my ankle! I was in central Iowa USA visiting my cousins, and they were all in the deep end of the pool. I was too busy trying to catch my breath to be afraid or to even call out to anyone…I just needed to free myself from whatever was wrapped around my ankle! I didn’t realize I was drowning…I was too busy problem solving! However, God is faithful in all things!
Suddenly, I was lifted out of the water and set down on the side of the community pool. I was violently shaking, taking deep breaths, and trying to calm myself. I turned to look at who had lifted me out of the pool to find out why I kept being pulled underwater. A lifeguard was sitting next to me telling me about the double strand of ropes that stretched across the pool and how they had gotten wrapped around my ankle. Teenagers had been standing on the ropes taking turns swinging back and forth and diving back into the water. Their actions affected my ability to stay above water because my ankle had been caught between the ropes.
I do not remember ever sharing this experience with anyone. However, the feelings arising from this memory continue to resonate within me. When I get mired in deep places, or wander down difficult paths on my spiritual journey, or when someone’s actions cause harm to another, I remember that sometimes my problem-solving ability is unnecessary because God’s Spirit is already in that space, and I need to let the Spirit lead.
The continuing presence of the Divine is forever faithful if we but notice. You see, faithfulness is both an inward and outward journey. Who you choose to be is affected by who you choose to follow, and who you choose to follow is affected by who you choose to be. Choose to be faithful to the one who created you and knows you best…this is the one who sends you forth to proclaim Jesus’ message of love, justice, and peace!
Prayer Phrase
“…share abundantly in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
From Scarcity to Abundance
Take a deep breath and release your fear of “not enough.” Name one place of scarcity in your life, then name one way you already see abundance. Offer a simple prayer of gratitude: “God, open my eyes to your abundance.”
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.