The transitions I have made in my life have been filled with many hellos and goodbyes. They have also been overflowing with gifts and words of encouragement, gratitude, and love from the communities I have been a part of. I have a collection of various items including a Bible, a Protestant rosary, specially crafted canvases, hand-made cards, custom jewelry, and blankets from the different places I have been in community with.
To some people, these items may seem like they do not hold significant value, but to me, they represent the unique groups of people that I have gotten to be a part of and impacted my life.
On certain days, I enjoy spending time looking at these items to remind myself how these places and God have wrapped me in their love and care during my time with them, and continue to do so. It feels like getting a warm hug from both that community and God.
Can you remember a season of change in your life? These changes in life have likely been accompanied by gifts, uplifting words, and love, but also big emotions such as excitement and sadness as the transition happens.
Scripture reminds us that regardless of where we go, God goes with us. In the book of Joshua, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites. This was likely a terrifying new circumstance for Joshua. However, God told Joshua the following: “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9). This was a reminder to Joshua that no matter where he was going God was journeying with him.
The Word of God also reminds us that we are constantly wrapped in the love of God. In Psalm 36:7, it says, “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings”. No matter where we go, we are constantly being held by God, who continues to swaddle us in love even when we leave different communities and people. Wherever you end up in your life transitions, I pray that you are reminded of the ways the communities you have been a part of impacted you and the ways God continues to hold you.
How do you feel God wrapping you in his love during your life transitions? Have you ever received a gift that felt like a warm hug from God?
Continually held,
Pastor Nicole