Third Week of Advent – Joy
Luke 1:57-66 & Isaiah 35:1-10
ADVENTure, God is in complete control all the time
My family is building a cabin close to the Buffalo River. We find great comfort in the peace and tranquility of the Ozark Mountains. If you’ve ever been to that area of the state, it is definitely what some would call God‘s country. We’ve met lots of quality folks in Searcy County and are thrilled to soon spend more time with them.
A couple of weeks ago, I received a frantic phone call from our nearest neighbor. Our neighbor, Stephanie, is a teacher and caregiver for her husband Danny who is paraplegic. She alerted me that a fire had caught and was traveling from our property directly toward their house. Panic! I was sick with dread for Stephanie and Danny. After hanging up the phone I felt especially helpless because I was a two-hour car ride away. My son and I jumped in the car not knowing how this story would unfold. While barreling down I-40 West in the shotgun seat of our truck, I began to pray vehemently to God. Just praying to protect our neighbors and show us mercy.
Long story short, the local volunteer fire department mobilized and fought the fire for hours with limited water and a blower. As God would have it, not luck, The Buffalo River fire brigade was working less than two miles away and came to lend a powerful hand.
This entire experience felt like I was living Isaiah 35, Joy of the Redeemed that reads
3 Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees(J) that give way;
4 say(K) to those with fearful hearts,(L)
“Be strong, do not fear;(M)
your God will come,(N)
he will come with vengeance;(O)
with divine retribution
he will come to save(P) you.”
Stephanie (neighbor) admitted that she was having some personal issues the night before and decided to call in sick for work. She told me she wasn’t sure why she was struggling and then it all crystallized for her. If things had gone as planned, she would’ve been at work and fire would have ravaged everything. She thanked God for giving her the roadblocks. God’s protection comes in many ways. May you find joy and adventure during this Advent season.
Remember, God’s got whatever you want or need. God is always with you. Keep the faith.
Strengthen the feeble hands
– John Gairhan
