Be Still

 

So much in life we take for granted. See how a simple trip to the grocery store had a profound impact on me, counteracting my sense of balance forever.

Be Still, and Know 

 

I had sunk into the seat of my car, nearly breathless, I could barely focus. The feeling had fallen over me slowly as I walked the aisles of our local grocery store. A very large store there are a myriad of choices for any one item. Like a kaleidoscope turning, this simple trip to the store had left me anxious and overwhelmed. But, simply put, it wasn’t just the variety of items that were carried there, it was the thoughts that occupied my mind as I did my shopping.  

It is no surprise to anyone reading this how the cost of living has skyrocketed. You can no longer buy a roast to have on Sunday without paying between $20-$30.  I began to wonder how people that live a marginalized life are able to cope with the reality of feeding their families. My heart melted into a puddle of empathy for those less fortunate. People with children to feed. The ones whose dollars never quite stretch far enough to afford the very basic necessities. One might ask – How could God allow this to happen?  

Isn’t it strange that when any crisis befalls us, people are quick to blame it on God. Yet, when things are wonderful, He is almost never brought into the equation. 

The truth is, God doesn’t allow anything to happen. We are all born with free will. We are given the opportunity to make the choices that guide our life. We need to listen, listen to His very words. They are succinct and loving. Words that write each and everyone's story. 

 

 

 

And yet, silence directs us instead.  

We would rather hear about tragedy and disasters. The sensationalism that drives us to turn on the news each evening. How anxious would we be to tune in to David Muir if he asked you to examine your relationship with God? Where is He in your life? Is he in the aisles of the grocery store? The destruction of a hurricane? Or the profound ruins of the Ukraine?  

The answer is a resounding YES! It is in the midst of our most desolate moments He lives within us the strongest. God is the one who provides the courage to keep going. He wipes our tears and breathes life back into our soul. We are in fact closer to Him in tragedy than joy. God begs us to burst forward in prayer, asking for guidance and help. He waits like a patient Father, wanting his children to come back to Him.  

He has been ever present through the challenges and loss in my life. When I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, I knew deep inside it was a blessing. Even more than that, an opportunity to be a part of His absolute glory.  

I sat in church 4 days later, eyes transfixed of the crucifix. It was then I decided to give my cancer to the Lord. I continued to look at his outstretched arms on the cross as I whispered – If you can do that for me, I can do this for you. A sense of peace fell over me like a starlit night. From that moment on I never worried. I knew, without a doubt He was right there with me.  

His love fills those who struggle to feed their families, rebuild lives, and face death daily. He promises, Be not afraid, I go before you always.  

 

 

 

So just maybe it is up to us to speak His name, so they might hear. To be his hands on earth for those who suffer. And pray for the peace only He can provide. 

David Muir may never ask about your relationship with God when you tune into the evening news, but you can ask it of yourself, each and every day. 

 

Teri Carlson