A Life in Exile

I wrote on Dec. 31, 2015:

1 Samuel 7:12 reads “Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” I saw this picture and verse on a recent email, and I knew it was from the Lord for me. This morning in my new journal I drew a picture of a stone and wrote on it “Ebenezer” and told the Lord that I am making a symbolic marker to acknowledge Him as my source of help in the years past and the confidence that He will continue to be that Help in the years ahead. The verse of Philippians 1:6 came to mind as I wrote that He who began a good work in me (and my children, physical and spiritual ones) will continue it on until completion until the day of Christ Jesus. I’m holding on to the Rock today as I leave 2015 in grief, and face 2016 in hope. May He encourage all those who grieve today to do the same. May your New Year be truly blessed in Christ Jesus and be a testimony of His work in your lives.

As November comes around and I prepare in my mind to mark the year anniversary of my husband’s death, I received a package in the mail. It was from my husband’s dear niece, Enas, all the way in Idaho. I opened it up and found the stone pictured above. Twice in this past year I’ve remembered the verse from 1 Samuel 7:12 — as I began a new year without my husband, and then again, as I marked the passing of my father, just six months later. The gift came from one who understands the grief of loss and knows the importance of remembrance and reliance on the Lord. I thanked the Lord for Enas’ thoughtfulness and care, and lifted my eyes once again to the God who does nothing by chance.

Now I have my stone where I can see it every day and be reminded of the One who helps me through the good days and the bad. As I mark this month of grief, I have a physical reminder of the Source of my help and comfort, and I am thankful. May you seek Him as your source of help for the days ahead.

Grace and Peace