My Strong Refuge

I have safely reached Uganda. It feels wonderful to be back in my new home. Nevertheless, I have to say that it has been an extremely stressful last couple of days for me. I had a number of problems with my flights, including one flight actually being canceled due to the snow in London. I was able to catch another flight through a different airline just in time. (God definitely sends angels to help me and guide me. If it would not have been for this airline worker, I definitely would have not made it to London on time.) As a result of all of this, I think that my luggage was lost. I am missing four of my checked in bags. The luggage service is going to try to track it, but they aren't guaranteeing anything. Please pray that I receive it.

As event after event has changed in my life and circumstances sometimes drain my energy and play with my emotions, I am constantly reminded about what truly matters in life. I am so thankful that Jesus is unchanging and his grace and love for us is always available. As I continue to be bombarded with confusion and chaos (at times), I run to my hiding place where I know I will always find refuge. I was thinking yesterday-as I felt so utterly weak and helpless-I am very thankful I have Jesus to go with me wherever I go. I am truly grateful that I never have to travel alone. It has been very reassuring to be reminded of the strength, peace, and joy of the Lord. In fact, I have found that as I am bombarded with my weakness and inadequacy, I am also embraced with God's strength and total adequacy. Every time I think in my mind or heart "I can't do this," I sense the Lord's presence and hear him say, "You don't have to." I have found that one of the most valuable lessons, and yet the most difficult to practice is "Let go, and let God."

I am continually challenged to look through my eyes of faith and believe that God is with me and is directing my steps. I find that as I continue to release control to the one who holds my life and future: it actually appears that things are more in control. I find that the only way I can find rest for my soul is to release my burdens to the Lord and let him have his way in my life. The results may not look anything like what I expected, but the finished product will always be more beautiful than I could have ever imagined or created.

Please pray that as I embark on this new and vast adventure, I will let the Lord steer my ship. I want to fully depend on him-knowing and also living the truth that without him I am nothing, but with him I am everything.