From time to time we have moments when it seems the blood in our veins turns cold, our stomachs feel as though they are dropping down into our knees, our breathing becomes shallow and rapid, and our legs appear to be made of jelly – wobbly and unable to hold us up. Those times occur when we hear bad news or have a sudden shock to our system or when he learn that something has the power to change our lives, perhaps even damage us. At such moments, we may feel like we are standing alone in the universe – perhaps the only person left on the planet. It seems like the world has vanished and we will be left by ourselves to deal with our sorrow, our shock, our pain, our disappointment.

The last few weeks I have been going through some tests related to my health. Each week as I was called back to do another test, to have one more examination, the tests seemed to grow more onerous, more frightening, perhaps even life-threatening. Although I had been feeling very positive about the outcome of the tests, they were beginning to erode my confidence. Indeed, they were weaving a pattern of doubt and fear that possibly something really bad could happen to me. I discovered that my breathing was becoming more shallow and my blood’s temperature felt like it was dropping.

Yesterday, on my way to the latest test, I started to turn off my cell phone when I saw that I had several text messages. One of those was written by my friend Adam and clearly stated: ‘Remember, you are in the hands of an overwhelmingly loving God and in the thoughts of friends who love you too!’ I almost dropped to my knees in gratitude as I felt the tears of sheer joy and relief fill my eyes. Yes, we are in the hands of an overwhelmingly loving God. How important it is for us to remember that – always.

Overwhelmingly Loving God, thank you for holding us in the palm of your hands. At times we may feel afraid, vulnerable, unworthy of this amazing love that You give to us. May we remember to reach out to you, to feel your Presence – especially when we are afraid. You truly are our God who can hold us and heal us, if we allow you to do that. Thank you, thank you. Amen.

Joy Carol

www.joycarol.com