For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. - Jeremiah 29:11
Until recently, my youngest daughter, son-in-law and 1-year-old granddaughter lived relatively close to me. In less than three hours my Mini Cooper could pull up to their doorstep and I could be with them, face to face, hugs and all.
We were close enough for every event—birthdays, Mother’s Day, Christmas and every milestone in-between. For more than ten years, I relished every time my dining room table was encircled by each family member, now numbering eleven. My house lit up with the joy of their presence. Our together times became the best of times.
So having these three relocate across the country was painful—as if someone took a knife and carved out some of the sweetest portions of my life. It seemed to happen in a whirlwind and, in many ways, I’m still trying to catch my breath.
I have asked God many questions about these circumstances and much is yet to be answered. Still, I know that He is in control. He has good plans for my daughter’s family and good plans for me as well. I can’t begin to understand or even imagine what He has in store for all of us. But He is a good and loving Father. So I put my confidence completely in Him. He has always been faithful to my family, providing a beacon of guidance and provision for our every need. I will trust Him through this time of change and my daughter’s change of address, knowing that the love we share between us as a family will not diminish because of miles. There is simply no place my dear ones can ever go that my heart can’t reach.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
No matter what difficult challenge you are facing right now, even if it is devastating and emotionally draining, remember that God sees you and cares deeply about what you are experiencing. He is with you in this and offers to guide you through it, moment by moment. Lean on Him. Trust Him. There is genuine hope in His presence.