For Such A Time As This

“Down the stairs, turn right, take the sidewalk until the end, turn left, walk straight, and turn right…” As I mentally rehearsed the way to the church auditorium, I asked God for confirmation that I really am supposed to be in Guam. As I entered the sanctuary and my eyes adjusted to the darkness, I contemplated my next move…Should I sit confidently in a pew by myself and busy myself with the church bulletin until someone takes pity on me and comes and talks to me? Or should I go seat myself close to a group and pretend like I know them? As I considered my options, I noticed a native lady sitting by herself in the corner, and I knew what God would have me be about at that moment. As I walked over and introduced myself, she excitedly pulled out the Beth Moore study on Esther, you know, the one that I went through like three times two years ago. “I am trying to understand this book, and I just don’t get it. I am new Christian. I like, but I don’t understand.” As she hurriedly explained her situation in halting English, I couldn’t refrain from an internal chuckle. How like our great God to orchestrate this chance meeting and remind me that He can and will use me here. I don’t pretend to know what all my “destiny” entails, but I do look forward to many small moments like this, when I know that I have come to Guam for such a time as this.

Mine

What do you own that you value above all else...you know the thing that you take special care of, and don't let anyone else mess with? Whether from intrinsic or sentimental value, I'm sure most individuals have something that they take special delight in. Reading through Isaiah, I am comforted by God's possessiveness, or the value that He places on His children. He has graven me on the palm of His hand. He knows me, inside and out. He loves me. He takes special care of me, because I belong to Him. Nothing can touch me, because He watches constantly. As I consider the future, I am assured by God's promise, "Do not be afraid, because I have redeemed you. You are mine, you are precious in my sight."