Photo by Linda Mose Meadows of Bethune Cookman Concert Choir
We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:2,3
I so love when college choirs visit the local church and invite the community. Annually several of the historic black college choirs would visit the area churches in Buffalo, NY during their spring or fall concert tour schedules. This often was a great scholarship fundraiser for many church auxiliaries and also an opportunity for the host Alums to showcase their respective visiting college for future high school graduates looking forward to attending "their" desired UNCF School! It didn't matter how deep the snow or cold the evening, we'd brave the weather because we knew we were in for an outstanding treat! I recall Morehouse and Spellman College Choirs visiting on separate occasions, oh the alum were so proud and rightfully so! The music was always exceptional and the poised, articulate college students made us extremely proud.
During the concert each singer would have an opportunity to introduce themselves, their major and announce their hometown. You could anticipate the sanctuary erupting with resounding applauds and joyous responses when a student was a relative or from our beloved hometown. Reflecting back, what I know for sure is that these polished young men and women's presence boosted morale and attested to God's goodness. Yes our spirits were lifted. We were witnessing the hope and the dream that our elders spoke of. You could sense the audience's pride and affirmation that these college students were shining lights in a dim world.
Attending college and remaining was and is no small fete. It is a financial hardship for most and that the sacrifices that their immediate loved ones make and endure seem to be worth it! Each of the students which stood before us had the capacity for greatness, and apparently was swiftly making "their" way! We were all witnesses that the future awaits them, most especially the children in the church, who had yet to venture out. It was unspoken, a spiritual mandate of sorts to pay attention and someday grab the baton, follow and make their mark in the world!
So I am confident it was much more than an evening concert and a welcoming reception where alum donned their school colors but more importantly a celebration of and for our future savvy young movers and shakers. Their appearance is a public acknowledgement that our personal and collective struggles are worth it all! So I thank God for the call over these young people's lives and their unique ministry which ushered them north! I thank God for this tradition of sharing sacred musical genres that facilitate worship and celebrate our heritage and culture. And I especially thank God for their presence, their faithfulness, their scholarship which lifts our hearts and encourages our souls regarding God being in the midst! He most assuredly holds our hand continually and is speaking!
Listen up my friends, don't you hear the young folks singing?
We are Listening Lord!
Song: I'll Never Let Go Of His Hand
From the album NATIONAL BLACK COLLEGE GOSPEL FESTIVAL (1976). Bethune-Cookman College of Daytona Beach, FL
We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.
2 Corinthians 4:7
Participating in the Chum's Ninth Annual Spring "Lunching With The Arts" at the Rio Pinar Country Club in Orlando, Florida was an April afternoon filled with awe and appreciation for the gifts of the arts and scholastic excellence. This super day was also a wonderful literary event which allowed me an opportunity to showcase my devotional and chronicle the inception of: The Blessedness of Believing, A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises!
Oh, friends I count my blessings; meeting and being able to witness the diligence and dedication of The Orlando Chapter of Chums, Inc. and also being featured with esteemed authors: Dr. Brenda Y. Person and Dr. Elisha Delbert Gray. Truly I was in great company! It was an honor meeting the anointed painter,artist Mr. Everett Spruill (who's deeply inspired and influenced by Romare Bearden) www.everettsart.ning.com. Listening to the upbeat and contemporary Jazz accompaniment of stellar musicians:Tony Wynn & Company was a great treat. They superbly serenaded the lovely guests-many adorned in festive spring hats. It was priceless to see the young readers and scholarship recipients being acknowledged for their worthy efforts. I count it a joy and honor for this delighful luncheon invitation. Thank you Lord!
However, as
it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived
what God has prepared for those who love him"
--1 Corinthians 2:9
Leaving Atlanta for Florida
April 2012 has been a rewarding month both literally and spiritually. As I glimpsed
at my facebook timeline I was able to visually chronicle some highlights, but
knew that that which I virtually shared was only the tip of the iceberg. There
had been some amazing aha moments and I praise God for the abundance of
blessings that I was able to witness and receive with our loved ones. You may
wonder what does that really mean? Well, I’ll
share that further in detail, just know that in my spirit I am saying,
"Look what the Lord has done." The happening included an all too quick visit with several wonderful
friends, treasured time spent with my Aunt Shirley and cousin, Zebbie in Buffalo;
traveling on the road back to Georgia with Eric and then spending extended time
with my Mother and Granny resulted from a simple phone call from my brother
Eric who asked, "Lin what are you doing this weekend?" He'd just received the news that we had the upcoming weekend to pack up St. Mary's Place because the closing and sale of our home would occur on the upcoming Monday. Time was of the essence.
That weekend
I hopped a plane from Central Florida back to our
beloved hometown Buffalo, New York
to bring closure to the sale of our home, my mother’s property and our child’s
home place. This moment was much more than just transferring keys and packing some boxes- it was home and a floodgate of life lessons,memories that continue to shape us. But I had to remain focus, Eric insisted. We were on a mission to pack and purge, so we told ourselves. This mission included and insured that the new tenants would be benefactors of Mom’s home furnishings
and appliances.God's outstretched hands and blessings were at it again. We were instructed to not overlook returning with our Mother's books, family keepsakes and retrieving important paperwork because the time had finally come to
sell. The items we decided to leave the new owners offered to send to her country abroad. "Others can use them." Her statement was was an instant relief!
Basement-packing and purging!
Having an awesome visit with Aunt Shirley and Zebby!
My heart wasn't so heavy then. As I began to sift through articles of
clothing and rediscover with Eric mountains of papers, elementary school report cards (Mom's included), scrap books, toys, loved one's obituaries, funeral bulletins, greeting cards, significant artifacts and wonderful family photos I began reminiscing about so many things and immediately knew the most
import treasures were our relationships we built and the significance of these heart conncections. It then wasn't such an emotional tussle to part with things, discard and/or share them. But the real jewel was never having to give up family, friends-our wonderful loved ones, no matter the distance and time lasp between us!
Beloved Friends...
They are fondly held in my heart. I'll not forget to anticipate the sweet reunions that we can look forward to. And knowing us we'll laugh and giggle out loud as we acknowledge the sustaining love and comfort of God
that continually anchors us! It will be a thanksgiving- a celebratory moment to marvel at the victories won that got us
from this time to that.
So now here I am friends back in Florida sitting at my kitchen table, writing, smiling, reflecting-assured and prayerful that Mama (and our family) are feeling better about this
transition. In my spirit we are tremendously greatful to have evidenced God's mercies,witness His blessings and to be a blessing to others as we embark upon a new journey, a new timetable. It's indeed another new beginning and transition that reunitedand reconnected us with all that
really matters in the name of love.
Nicholas Murray Butler (1862-1947) Philosopher, Educator,
Diplomat
Are you ready for the
possibilities? No, it’s not just another cute cliché but for many of us, a very
pertinent question. We are facing tough challenges, many of which are
unspeakable. And yes we are at the crossroads of life. It seems too costly, too
time consuming for making decisions without first thinking things through. Not
to mention we are tired of mistake after mistake. But stuff happens even with
our best planning! Our Best plans can be consumed with the breakdown or
dissolving of relationships, bumpy hurdles, mental/emotional fatigue and anguish
by the cup full. Then it’s a battle
against confusion ruling our thinking and earth shattering occurrences wrestling
us continually. We are literally
shifting our perspectives and modus operandi because of life’s uncertainties. These
uncertainties with their deep rooted implications often impact us all
spiritually, morally and ethically. The impact is often startling. It's a dismantling that may forever change us.
But, although it may feel like we are on shaky ground never to rebound--it’s
just that a feeling! Lord knows we need to look upward and inward!
One of my favorite poets, Nathan
Richardson posed the question that speaks of our willingness and readiness for
change. It’s a barometer—our insight ( the indwelling Holy Spirit), a deep down mechanism that forecasts our
being ready for all the possibilities of newness – new adventures, new
thinking, new and positive relationships, new opportunities, and the plain
newness of life! Yes, it’s vital to envision newness in the midst of chaos.
God promises that he'll do a new
thing in you and me! Thank goodness this promise is not predicated on
circumstance.
Behold, I will do a new thing; now
it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the
wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19 KJV
Often we imply that we are ready
for the possibilities, but we are not quite sure where to begin or which
direction to move towards. The thing I know for sure is: we must place momentum
and a resolute determination to get unstuck especially in our valley
experiences. As Reverend William Feaster enjoys saying, “We must give feet to
faith!” Yes, it’s imperative, we must initiate the spark! Let me share a
wonderful moment which really clarifies this point.
We believed we’d come together for
a house warming celebration, but God had so much more in store for us on
Saturday afternoon. We entered the apartment complex’s Community Room with joy
and anticipation. Our friend was a superb hostess that easily shared a heart of
thanksgiving. The many guests bounced through the door each carrying a gift.
The gifts opened revealed that they had been carefully and thoughtfully
selected: lovely and ornately decorated ceramic canisters, a crystal platter
etched with a swan, spunky kitchen and bath necessities and greeting cards
filled with personal messages. It was Christmas in late summer! You could
actually feel that what was occurring was the birth of something new. We were on
the cusp, witnesses of God doing a brand new thing! In our active assembling
what really resonated in my spirit, was that we were celebrating an end of a destructive
relationship and applauding our friend’s fresh transition of stepping out on
faith. We were spiritually looking forward with our dear friend to a better,
more vibrant tomorrow! This was a very public acknowledgement that: You’ve survived a public humiliation and a
broken heart but like a Phoenix here you stand! Now
it’s time to move forward!Our presence and
gifts applauded her resilience! But we knew in our heart of hearts that God had
kept her safe and sane! We boldly declared with her that some relationships are
toxic and staying in them serves no good purpose! God desires that we live in
and with dignity! He’ll bring us through! And that we understand that there are
soul ties and connections that will assuredly suffocate life and snuff out dreams.
But with faith and the possibilities of hope we can all abound! This was a
pivotal moment for all attendees. This was confirmation that fresh starts are
possible and no it’s not easy! As gifts
were opened several guests were prompted to openly share their personal victories,
struggles and acknowledgements of God’s presence during some trying life
episodes. The focus was about looking ahead to celebrating ordinary days with
promising tomorrows.
You too are not just a survivor, but an overcomer! Thank you Jesus!
Don’t you see friends, it’s time to
change our gaze and realize peaceful safe havens, shore up our energy to scale
and walk on new paths, witness new vistas and embrace new possibilities!God will make the way, you first must make
up your mind! I am thrilled about the anticipation of newness – assured in my heart
of the new possibilities awaiting me and you! In my husband, Richard’s words:
“Okay, possibilities, come on, I’m ready!” I pray your Easter week will
resurrect new and great possibilities for you and all that concerns you! So the
question remains, “Are you ready for the possibilities?”
Photograph of Mural in Baltimore by Linda Mose Meadows
“Because he hath set his love
upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath
known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him
in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy
him, and show him my salvation.” saith the Lord.
Psalm 91:14-16
I bet you've had this happen? You’ve walked into or
almost bumped into people conversing and in earshot could easily have joined in on their discussion. You heard their exchange,
but knew it was not the time to give your opinion. In those instances my
friends would say, “Keep your twenty two cents to yourself.”That’s how much they valued your input. Well,
I am sure this was the case, let me explain.As I quickly walked by I witnessed it and heard it in her tone of voice,
another woman, whom I concluded was the mother of a tall, handsome and athletic
looking young man. I am sure he was a teenager, not totally focused on what was
being said to him. He wasn’t
disrespectful just not responding in the manner I suspect his mother desired.
They were in the store isle standing in front of the cereal boxes, she was stressing
the importance ofselection and cost. I
sensed there was a level of frustration that the adult really did not mean to
make apparent. Her comprehension of the
high costs of food boomeranged in my spirit.But it was evident to me there was more to the angst. I don’t believe it
was so much about the sparse boxes of dry cereal with the exorbitant prices. I
discerned that her pitch and tone may have had to do with what was or wasn’t occurring
in their life. No, I’m not a psychic, but I trust the Holy Ghost. (We don’t have
a clue about the struggles and demands others face.) And I don’t claim to know
her station in life; but I am sure God meant for me to feel empathy and connect
with them. My instincts were revved and I knew the immediate issue was what the
son desired verses what was affordable. Not that long ago it was me standing in
the isle sharing with my son about his wants surpassing his needs. (Lord knows I
have been there! Some instances those moments return.)
Listening to their exchange I was yanked back in
time when our tall son was in undergrad and my heart would skip a beat whe he
phoned because in his tone of voice I could discern whether it was a distress
call or otherwise. His frantic undertone
said, “I need assistance now!” Just listening to the mother’s undertone I felt the
urgency to help her! My mother instinct
kicked in when I also heard his voice. He tried to mask it with a cordial "Hi Mom!” but I knew better.
Eventually we’d get to the heart of the matter and
I’d honor his request the way most of our parents do. And yes, I was prompted to assist this loving mother and open my wallet not to boost about my
charitable acts, but instead to demonstrate an active assurance that God’s heart
and hands are open to her.
"Thank you Lord God!"
[She] He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him
in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy
him, and show him my salvation.” saith the Lord.
Psalm 91:15-16
I recall in that similar spirit chatting with my
favorite Bank Manager to learn that her smile belied the apparent truth that
her heart was very heavy about her husband's third departure for serving in the
military. I promised I’d pray for them.
“Lord keep us and protect us in Jesus’ Name. We need
you and are counting on your infinite mercy and care! Thank you Father, thank
you!”
After leaving the bank/supermarket with a few
grocery items that had shot up in price in a week’s time, I just shook my head
in amazement. There was one more stop before going home. I drove to my
neighborhood Shoe Repair Shop that had not been maintaining their usual
business hours. I quickly ran in the shop surprised that the door was ajar and
wondered why there had been a sign on the door with the handwritten words
Closed for Several Weeks-what, why?
The young
proprietor confessed in an apologetic tone that his family was facing
difficulty and he now worked elsewhere during the day. He shared that
financially they were having difficulty paying their mortgage and his elderly
mother now covered the shop. This was a rough patch! Once again I knew well
about mortgage woes. But, friends what really resonated in my spirit were the words wthe young man spoke: "But it’s going to be all right I guess!” Without a doubt these are some of the most difficult
times that this many people have encountered collectively in a very long while. It
feels like more than a pinch, it’s often a strangle hold to stay afloat making our
ends meet. Living in this world can be very hard! Yes, indeed it’s rough-it’s
real, it’s personal hardships on an intimate level!
As our elders would utter, "But God!"
Meaning; But for the love of God!
But for His unwavering provision!
But for His marvelous grace and sweet mercy! But for
the beauty of God’s word which reminds us that His love abounds even in tough
times!
Imagine an abiding love for you-his children. A love
not predicated on status, religion or pedigree. No matter the personal attacks,
innuendos hurled and/or the tumultuous hardships experienced. We can count on God's
wonderful supply of protection, grace and evident mercy. Daily we can abide
under His care: His Lordship! Wouldn’t you agree it’s comforting to realize this? His deliverance and most assuredly His love and
shelter will protect us even in the rough places if we just stay connected.
Hang on friends and safely
tuck in your heart the scripture:
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will
rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is [our] my refuge
and [our] my fortress [our] my God in who I trust.” Psalm 91:1, 2
Finally
be sure to reference on Youtube: Tonex, Kirk Franklin’s God Has Not Forgotten.
Keep a melody under your caps.
Peace and
God's Abundant Blessings to You,
Linda Mose Meadows, author of:
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life’s and God’s Promises http://www.blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/
February is rapidly fizzling out!
The end of the month is in clear sight and I can’t help butsmile and appreciate how powerfully enriching
the time has been inclusive of some surprising events, the delicious chocolate candy, amazing flowers, kind
gestures, disappointments and yes, unfortunate misunderstandings too. My heart
is heavy regarding the latter, but that too is life!
Adversity is also a gift and an
opportunity to grow closer to God, reflect and move forward. The Holy Spirit is reminding us to take heart. It’s no surprise that God speaks
to us through common and uncommon occurrences.It’s the aha moments-the unplanned encounters, strangers that stand in
the grocery lines burdenedheart
matters that are revealed in conversation, catching a glimpse of blue jays fluttering in front of our windows, and the sweet breezes
that brush across our temples as we’re fumbling with our keys. Oh it's the unexpected
reach, the welcomed hug, catchy lyrics that cause us to hum and sing along;
that persistent friend’s text, prying acquaintances, ______(you fill in the blank),
heartfelt prayers, timely scripture and when we least expect it-words on an
arch way meant to lift you and change your outlook!
I am convinced that God is
revealing His intentions for us and towards us!
So it is no wonder that God’s
presence was evident in Sunday’s worship service: The First Sunday of Lent~
Black History Month Celebration. I am convinced our eager hearts were like
flood gates-expectant and receptive. There was a deep down joyful lesson to be
had for each congregant. It wasn’t exclusive to just witnessing our youth
reenactors of: James Weldon Johnson, Mae Jemison, Carter G. Woodson, Thurgood
Marshall, Paul Robeson, Mary McCloud Bethune and The Rev. Nelson W. Pinder, but
their messages were woven with a mandate for this present day! We were urged to
maintain spiritual strength, resolve, stamina and courage. Each historic
celebrant exhibited grace and courage. Listeners understood that we too should
grab hold of these virtues. And then the spiritual gavel dropped, one of our
youth read from the bulletin, Joshua 1:1-9
COURAGE
1 After the death of
Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide:
2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get
ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the
Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot,
as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to
Lebanon, and from the
great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5
No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was
with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6
Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the
land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the
law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left,
that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the
Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be
careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and
successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do
not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you
wherever you go.”
It’s crystal clear now friends it
was not just a Black History Program but an empowerment moment! Weren’t your
spirits elevated by that powerfully enriching scripture? The assuredness that
resonated from children as they read and sang Make Them Hear You truly struck a cord! Their presence and
participation was evident that God is continually in our midst. Here are the lyrics you might wish to reference.
Make Them Hear You
Go out and tell the story. Let it echo far and wide Make them hear you. Make them hear you.
How that justice was our battle
and how justice was denied. Make them hear you! Make them hear you.
And say to those who blame us
For the way we chose to fight That sometimes there are battles Which are more than black or
white.
And I could not put down my sword
When justice was my right. Make them hear you. Make them hear you.
My path may lead to heaven or hell
And God will say what’s best But one thing he will never say Is that I went quietly to my rest. Go out and tell our story To your daughters and your sons Make them hear you. Make them hear you.
Proclaim it from your pulpit
In your classroom with your pen Teach every child to raise his
voice And then, my brothers, then
Will justice be demanded
By ten million righteous men. Make them hear you. Make them hear you.
Songwriters:
FLAHERTY, STEPHEN CHARLES / AHRENS, LYNN
Oscar Robertson's
Crusade for Saving A Life!
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever. Psalm 23:6
Central Florida was all a buzz
regarding the All Star Week’s festivities. One of the highlights of the week
was the opportunity to meet and greet the legendary Big “O”, the history making
basketball player Oscar Robertson! This wasn’t just about gaining Oscar’s
signature on basketball memorabilia at the Draft Restaurant, but more
importantly was a moment for attendees to gain community cancer education and awareness.
Mr. Robertson was traveling with Dr. Vipul Patel, founder of Natalia Kapsalis
Foundation headquartered in Celebration, Florida.
Dr. Patel has performed over 5000 robotic prostatectomies and Oscar
is a testament of this life saving surgery. Dr. Patel has honor of being the
world's most experienced robotic prostate surgeon and Oscar is a recipient of
Dr. Patel’s expertise. Oscar didn’t tout about his stellar basketball
career or even his Olympian win, nor his love for Indianapolis
and helping to build homes for the underprivileged. Instead on this visit he choose to urge
men, especially African American men to get their prostate exams and partner
with The International
Prostate Cancer Foundation to eradicate this disease. Oscar Robertson has courageously
battled stage four prostate cancer and won. He’s the one out of 6 men that beat
the odds and desires that all men get examined and take their health concerns
seriously. Did I mention that he’s also become a kidney donor for his daughter? That’s
truly wonderful! He courageously building a platform for support and awareness,
indeed he’s on a crusade for saving lives! Listen to Wisdom Watch interview on
NPR at: http://www.npr.org/2012/02/23/147291133/nba-hall-of-famer-beats-prostate-cancer.
In Mr. Robertson’s
words he “wishes all people would
understand the ways of the world, make it a better place and understand that we
aren’t going to be here forever.”
We thank God for Oscar Robertson’s tenacity and courage!
It Just Gets Better!
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Proverbs 31:25
It was meant to be that as the three of us departed the
park, my Sister in Christ and dear friend Ronette and I would seemingly glance up
simultaneously and see these neon words in bold letters: IT JUST GETS BETTER.
Immediately I yelled, “Ricky please take our
photo and be sure to get the words!” Jesus we receive that message! We
looked at each other and began to simultaneously laugh with joy! We did a modest dance, but our joy was contagious! A soul
train line would have really been fun.
Ronette’s prior visit to Florida
had been cancelled and it was disappointing. We knew she’d get to Florida,
just not now (or so we believed). Many years ago we created our itineraries
which included Historic Eatonville’s Zora Festival ( wearing our wide brimmed hats), venturing to the beach (the
Ocean was calling), and seeing Mickey as we enjoyed Orlando’s
ambiance. Nice thought, but never imagining that Florida
would become my home. (But God has the details all worked out!) January’s plans fell through with her visiting,
but that wasn’t the end of the story! God does expand our territories! It’s just
often not on our time table or in our immediate view. (We do realize this
lesson is bigger than friends traveling from one state to the next!) Many will concur that a break from the struggles isn’t going to occur. Before long we buy that bill of goods, and our heart’s desire is
a far off dream-but apparently that’s the furthest thing from the truth. Apparently
there’s a new reality, a divine truth for all of us! Thank God! Thank you Jesus!
With that knowledge our spirit’s neon sign should read:
“LOOK AT GOD! LOOK UP AND ANTICIPATE HIS GOODNESS!”
It’s a fact there we stood @ Downtown Disney’s Board Walk sharing about
our lives and how our friendship has endured the ups and down of life! And, yes
once again God bypassed our forecasted planning, and planted her here for this
time. Without a doubt it was a Divine undertaking and to say the least it was
sheer thanksgiving. Like friends say, “You
just don’t understand.”
So many other wonderful happening, events and tell tale
signs that applauded milestones of trailblazers and our just having plain ole
fun occurred. Friends, each instance had an undertone of “it” being a token for
our good, “it” had a divine imprint that inferred this wasn’t our doing! We are
grateful, and understand that as God expands our scope/ territories of life
it’s surely His intention for our good. Relish that truth. Marvel and revel
in God’s good pleasure for you and yours- know that His lessons are many,
intentional; just have the courage and heart for the journey! Breathe; take it
in, a fresh anointing, a new life’s chapter awaits you! Jesus knows! It’s your call to go
on and love boldly and live passionately!
We really do long to hear your triumphant story!
Hey who’s knocking? " Oh it’s the month of March, Come on in we’ve been
waiting for you."
Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God. Corrie Ten Boom
Determined to write a devotional, I reached for a past article written for Urban Views Weekly, July 15, 2009 entitled : When You’re at a Crossroads, the Odds are with You. How appropriate for me at this juncture of my life. When I earnestly reflect on the stations of my life, many bittersweet, I shake my head in amazement. Lord I survived and am grateful for being transformed continually!
Yes, I am in a new place spiritually and physically. Divine growth spurts got here. At the time of my July 2009 writing we resided in Virginia and had gone home to Buffalo, New York to visit friends and family, secretly I wanted to return. For many years I was terribly home sick, I longed for a break from the numerous pain filled valley experiences, but blessed events also. Before the July 2009 article was birthed I sat at my dear friend, Renita’s home and marveled at a granddaughter whom I had only seen in photos.
This very busy little toddler so bright and rambunctious had very mature language skills which were matched with her determination and zeal. She zipped around the house searching for her princess clothes. She too was in search of something precious. Renita and I shared and caught up on past and present news- relevant to our lives. We exchanged pleasantries and then got to the heart matters that often surface after we comfortably settled into heart matters that can’t be overlooked. She said something like “Lin you’re living out your heart’s desire.” She was referencing my writing and published work. I hadn't thought of it that way. It just seemed that I was search of what seemed elusive-peace and contentment needed to make my life complete, but yet it felt impossible in a place that was far from home.
Well let’s fast forward, now I am seated at my dining room table in Orlando, Florida with lap top open and writing now for several other publications! I'm prayerful and very thankful-not so out of sorts. I'm expecting and anticipating further accomplishments and trusting that the fruition of what I long for will happen. Imagine my husband and I am now Floridians, feeling at home and excited about the future. It gives me goose bumps as my mind races and sifts through the numerous journeys that got us here. I am so pleased to be in this warm climate, a place of respite that seems to just swallow me in and assure me that change is surfacing.
My spirit is lifted and the heaviness that was so familiar has been disrobed like a heavy wool coat. Not that long ago, I was wondering do we pay the mortgage for this month or should we just pay the utilities instead and try to catch up in the following month? Too much anxiety! Yes, not that long ago I wondered (feeling bewildered) should I pack up my belongings and just retreat for home where familiar surroundings and an assured comfort zone of reliable family and friends could be counted on. But truth be told I would have missed out on the struggles, challenges and victories that were meant exclusively for me, for us. Living and surviving this life is not for the faint-hearted! I believe God is communicating with us this day my friends. As shared initially I thought I would submit an article I’d previously written but thank God I thought better of that! Instead I grabbed my devotional (Jesus Calling by Sarah Young) and then referenced scripture (Holy Bible New Living Translation). Here are the words and text that resonated in my spirit. The words spoke to my heart and gave me the direction needed:
STRIVE TO TRUST ME…. “I am sovereign over every aspect of your life; it is possible to trust Me in all situations. Don’t waste energy regretting the way things are or thinking about what might have been. Start at the present moment-accepting things exactly as they are-and search for My way in the midst of those circumstances.” Psalm 52:8; Proverbs 3:5-6
But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God's unfailing love.
Psalm 52:8
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
So my friends I trust that your spirits are encouraged that as you look-searching for your things, you too are living and writing new chapters! Go on and live your authentic lives as you trust God’s unfailing love. Troubles don't cease, but your life line of grace and mercy are more than adequate. You will survive! He’s orchestrated your route and has given you the heart to navigate your paths, just be sure to lean on God's truths not your limited understanding.
You very well may be at the cross roads looking over from this to that, but we know that seasons come and they go! Yes indeed change ultimately occurs generally for our good. And finally, connect with some loving souls-new and old friends you’ll be amazed at the revelations shared, that you too are reaching or have reached more of your heart’s desire than you imaged. Be sure to whisper a prayer of thanksgiving to our Lord and Savior as you acknowledge his omnipotence! Now get where you need to go and boldly strive to trust Him all the more.
Hope to see you at the cross roads!
Writteb by Inspirational Author, Motivational Speaker, Blogger & Columnist: Linda Mose Meadows. She is married to Rev. Richard D. Meadows, Jr., Pastor of The Episcopal Church of St. John The Baptist located in Orlando, Florida. Learn more about her endeavors of celebrating ordinary days with extraordinary promises through her devotional, blogs, and columns by visiting:
