COFFEE ON THE DOCK

I awoke with Jerusalem on my mind this morning. As surely as the mountains surround the Holy City, the LORD surrounds His people. Though the proud and deceived wish to destroy her, she will forever be held in God’s hands. Lord God Almighty, Lover of My Soul, I pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the safety of its hallowed streets. I pray that Your people remember Your promises and superintendence.

Tidal waters have always fascinated me; they are constantly rising higher or diminishing. So it is with everything in life. As one friendship strengthens, another dwindles. Youthful growth turns into retreating health. Treasured things deteriorate and unimagined new things emerge. Foolishness shrinks away and wisdom takes its place. Father Above, You are the Eternal Constant and that with every loss You provide a tidal deposit as a parting gift.

When I look back at my life it is easy to see God’s mighty hand at work. He has carried me through oceans of blessings. Yet, as I stand at the edge of a sea of opportunities ahead, I mostly see churning waves and dangerous obstacles. I hesitate to cast off for the horizon. Heavenly Father, only Your Word and Spirit will turn my gnawing apprehensions into solid faith. Help me today to navigate past my doubts and trust the helm to Your guiding touch.

When guiding a child through a delicate passage a father’s finger in a tiny fisted hand is sufficient. Learning to trust the guidance, paying attention and holding on firmly are the tasks at hand for the child. I thought these were lessons learned long ago, yet today I will do the same. And so my Lord, when I need direction, intervene with Your finger. When I am in danger make Your Voice heard. You are my guide, my shield and comfort.

Life is replete with letdowns. Some are truly consequential, but most are petty. Yet, the small ones often stick together, mushrooming into something more ominous. If not diminished, discouragement will set in. Learning to cast our disappointments into the sea of God’s love is vital to spiritual advance. Father, may Your unfailing love be my comfort. Fill my heart with Your joy and teach me to console others.

Life can come at you very fast. Things change, that’s it. It sometimes feels like I am again a five-year old with my arm out the window of a car trying to grasp the wind; lot’s of action and movement, little but the immediate experience to show for it. Having a Solomon moment here, so the conclusion: ”Fear God and keep His commandments.” Lord, that is enough. I am ready for another day.

I loathe speed bumps. Understanding their purpose and safety value doesn’t seem to help. I have devised numerous workarounds to avoid them or limit wheel contact. Commentary on their size, placement, justification and frequency is obligatory. Slowing down when I’m ready to roll just bothers me. Father, I get it. Thank You for the necessary slowdowns of life. I will not resent Your placement of required pauses.