Tuesday, April 21, 2009

God Visited Today

The knock at the door this morning was after a crying drive home from the rehab center where my father was scheduled to stay for another three weeks. It has been two short weeks since his quintuple bypass. My husband is having shoulder surgery this coming Monday. We are hosting an extravaganza of an engagement party this coming weekend that could not be cancelled, and my father said that he was leaving ‘that place’ and going home today. His doctor, the son of my parents' dear friends, said he could.

I just told a dear friend on the phone earlier this morning that my spiritual condition was running on empty. I have been doing too much thinking, planning, listing, reporting,fantasizing, fixing,daydreaming, eating,organizing, criticizing,joking,procrastinating,prevaricating,forgetting,re-membering.

The two young women at the door were total opposites in appearance. The first one I noticed had on giant white- rimmed Chanel-like sunglasses, short, stylish bleached blonde hair, a long funky skirt, rhinestone chandelier earrings, and a turquoise scarf looped around her neck. She was clutching a Louis Vuitton satchel. Her elfin features and soft eyes were highlighted with metallic navy eyeliner. She had the kindest smile I have ever seen.

Her friend was in complete contrast. She was a young woman who was the essence of demure. She wore a long -sleeved white blouse , a long navy skirt and sensible shoes.They began to speak completely in Spanish. I invited them to sit on the wicker chairs I have on my front porch. A gentle force outside myself extended that invitation. I just gave up.

Then I began to cry. They were there to say that God loves me and that the answer to all of my troubles today and forever is stated in God’s word- the Bible. That the words of the Bible are living, they give strength, they work when nothing else does. They were there to say that helping in my father’s care, regardless of what he may say or do, is a divine gift.

The entire time the first young woman spoke in Spanish , quoting scripture and writing references for me to read later, her partner knelt by my chair and rested her hand gently on my knee. They talked about fear and how we will all face difficult things and that God knows exactly what is happening in our lives and that He cares.

When a neighbor stopped her car at my mailbox to ask how things were going, they smiled and said that God wants us in relationship with one another. They asked how long my mother has been gone, and I cried even more.

List making and living life on life’s terms are not the remedies to ease the cause of tears. I am just so humbled and grateful for this precious, absolutely surprising, take your breath away, in the flesh gift . Thank you God.

13 comments:

Domestic Designer said...

Isn't it wonderful when God uses those angels among us to step in. You and your family will be in my prayers. I know God will give you the strength you need. Take care of yourself. We must take care of ourselves so we can care for those we love.

LuLo Designs/Blue Eyed Tango said...

This has been a very trying for week for many I know in blog land....I will add you to my list of those who need to be lifted up in prayer. When we are weak, HE is strong. Blessings, Luanne

Scribbler said...

I am sorry you are experiencing such an overwhelming time. I know from experience that you will make it through. I will keep you and yours in my thoughts.

Scribbler

Joy said...

How sweet and I know they refreshed your spirit.
Just said a prayer for you.

Joy

KBeau said...

This too shall pass, and you will be stronger for having gone through the fire.

trash talk said...

It is an indescrible joy when God speaks or as I like to say, whispers, to us. He is always there waiting to take whatever burdens we may have and handle them for us. It doesn't matter if it is a big problem or a small annoyance, as long as we do not get in His way. That's probably the hardest part...staying out of the way and putting all our faith in Him and Him alone. Debbie

Jennifer@woodleycottage said...

I am so sorry you are having a tough time right now. You will be in my thoughts.
Jennifer

KD said...

Angels sent to you! God is good. Blessings to you right now in this harrowing time.

Nancy's Notes said...

Dear Laura,

These times in life are heartbreaking, aren't they?

I am praying for you sweet and dear friend.

Nancy

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

So happy that you were sent encouragement today. Praying you will be refreshed and these hard days will soon be a thing of the past.

The Stylish House said...

Laura,
You were one of my first blog friends and I hold you dear. We are all traveling on this journey of life together and sometimes we are the strong one and sometimes others are strong for us. I wish you and your family my best and you have been in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs, Cathy

Beth in NC said...

That is so precious. God is good! I pray you will feel His strength and peace today.

Thank you so much for the follow! I look forward to knowing you better.

Love in Him,
Beth

susan said...

Laura-- This was what I call a "God wink"--A wink is something intimate between 2 people. It says "this is just for you" Sometimes when I get where you are I have to remind myself that I am not ultimately in charge of anything--that alone makes me feel better. So glad you found me so I could find you. I just finished spray painting some shutters---white :), used to teach English, and spent all afternoon with a caterer and florist (daughter's wedding) It seems as if we have a lot in common! Will say a prayer for you.

 

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