Trust for the Future
Kenton Cowick of Cary, NC, USA
How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news,
who announces salvation,
who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices,
together they sing for joy;
for in plain sight they see
the return of the Lord to Zion. -Isaiah 52:7-8
In October 2019, Betty and I celebrated our 80th birthdays. I had a stroke 10 years ago, affecting my right arm and leg. My daily functions now are from a wheelchair. Betty assists me in my hygiene functions. Betty was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago and is currently receiving treatment from a daily chemo pill and a monthly chemo shot. She also suffers from asthma.
Earlier this month I was obsessed with the thought of our future, especially with one of us dying, leaving the other living alone. We have complemented each other in our life’s needs and with death that would create needs that would have to be met externally. The thought of a nursing home is disturbing after being independent for 58 years of marriage.
Then one day the words from Matthew 28:20 flooded my mind: “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” I wept. I uttered the words, “Thank you, God, for your reassurance.” Knowing God’s love and God’s peace provides us hope for the future. We are not promised a life with no challenges; we are promised that God will be with us. Hallelujah! Hallelujah, Amen!
Prayer Phrase
Let your world of beauty capture me.
Spiritual Practice
Growing a Gracious, Generous Heart
Open your heart to God’s grace and generosity with a “breath prayer.” Let your breathing slow and deepen. Be aware of God’s breath moving in and out of your heart. Spend several minutes focusing on breathing in God’s generosity. With each breath, silently name one gift for which you are thankful. Let your heart expand to contain God’s gracious outpouring of love. With each breath out, name one gift you want to share from the overflow of your heart.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
