Susan LaffertyTravel plans so carefully made. Flights scheduled and booked.
Anticipating long-delayed reunions. After many covid19 restrictions. Requirements. Roadblocks.
Then, sudden uncertainty. Again.
Everything is up in the air.
Like the autumn leaves outside my window. Scattering in the wind. Landing who knows where.
2020. And the pandemic spreads to the ends of the earth. We wait. And walk in constant change. Cancellations. Upheaval.
Those serving around the world are affected. Some caught in months of lockdown. Stopped at borders. Forced to leave. Or forced to stay in their home countries.
At times it feels overwhelming. As we grieve unexpected losses.
In the middle of it all, I’m drawn back to a familiar psalm of deliverance. Psalm 18. Detailing the sure and powerful rescue by the Almighty.
This time I read the first verse. Stop. And can’t move past it.
I’m compelled in that moment. To reach beyond grief. And dwell on the deep, deep love of my King. Lover of my soul.
She lost her faith, she says. I read the interview and pause on the photograph.
Her eyes are sad. Haunting.
Throughout the day her heart cry crosses my mind and I pray for her. For others like her giving up on faith. Walking out on worship.
Empty. Doubting.
