Sandwiched

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3

If I stay camped inside the wall of emotions that swept over me these past few days I'd never step one foot on the floor. Instead, I'd stay in bed with the covers pulled over my head. Right now that image is inviting as I struggle to shake the fatigue making me feel like a soggy sandwich.

Pressing in on one side are the urgent needs of aging parents. On the other, the emotional support and guidance needed by young adult children; topped with rebuilding a physical structure destroyed by the winter storms and running a small business.

The phone rings and I take a deep breath wondering who's on the other end. Is it the builder with word on the garage? Is it my husband asking for help moving Dad's treasures to safe keeping or asking for help at the office? Is it the nurse watching over a loved one? Is it a parent out of touch with reality talking nonsense? Is it a mother who needs help? Or my child needing empathy, comfort, or advice? Maybe it's my granddaughter calling just to say, "Grams, do you know how much I love you?" I never know these days.

At my weakest moments I fall into my husbands arms weeping, "Where do we turn? Who's there to care for our needs in the middle of all this?" Then, I'm reminded that although I'm walking through this valley, sandwiched between the urgent needs of others and my own, God is right there with me. It sounds cliche but truth is truth. So, my spirit settles down as I grab hold of God's promises held true from ancient times until today.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified...for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

"For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." 

Isaiah 49:13

"...those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow faint." 

Isaiah 40:31

Dear reader, may you be comforted with the same words, strengthened by His Spirit, empowered by knowing you never walk alone, renewed for one more moment.