It was just an ordinary evening

or so I thought.

After dropping Noelle off at a friend’s house, Jenny and I got into our car.

We chatted and laughed about all that we would do while big sister was away.

I always like to make it special for the ones at home.

A tea party we were planning with chocolate chip cookies

but we never had that party that night.

No, three blocks from home our car was hit  and

an ordinary evening suddenly became a nightmare.

Looking back today more than five years later

I realize even more clearly God’s Hand of protection that evening.

No one was hurt.

The driver’s side of the car was badly damaged

but no one was hurt.

Yes, nerves were rattled and plans were thrown upside down

but no one was hurt.

Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed, for the Lord Thy God is with Thee.

He means what He says when He promises.

It’s taken a lifetime for me to realize this.

Our God is trustworthy. He is a prayer hearing God. And we can rest in His care.

There is no need for worry and anxiety.

We are held in His loving Hands.

Certainly His Promise is not a magic wand to be waved over every situation with foolishness.

Life is filled with tragedy, sudden loss, sorrow upon sorrow.

But in the midst of all of that His promise of Presence and protection shines brightly.

No matter what, He has promised to be with us.

Yes, someone could have been hurt or tragically killed that day long ago

but He kept us from danger. His plan was for us to live and to continue to serve Him.

Whenever He calls, He provides all that we need.

Whatever we might be lacking in human resources,

He supplies.

From time to time my girls will refer to that night with thankful hearts as we hold each other close.

He alone knows what our life may hold

but no matter what

may it all be lived for His Glory.

That’s all that really matters anyway, isn’t it?

Trust Him, my friends.