Good morning, DearHeart.

All three of my sons have gone through desert places. We all have. But, from a mom’s perspective, the urge is to fix it. And, we can’t. It is their journey … their wrestling match with God in a God-place, in God’s time. I haven’t raised girls, but have witnessed first hand – males have a super-strong need to be in control of their lives and have a plan that allows them to be a ‘provider’. It is innate. Part of their DNA. I know the desert is coming for our Baby Rush, our next generation, too. I can’t stop it. I won’t be able to fix it for him either – he will have to live it himself.

I know this happens to you, too. Something familiar – a familiar story – somehow takes a different direction … especially in life storms – in the midst of a storm, Paul encourages in Acts 27. In a snapshot – he speaks words which infuse courage and calms anxiety. He breaks bread and feeds the sailors or fishermen or whoever they were – for their own good. He prays, thanking God for Who He is. Smashed boat and all, not one life was lost. All 276 were spared. I’ve read this story so many times …

but, there are times, God has more to say and He diverts our eyes to take in a few words differently ….

“Once we were safe on shore, we learned that we were on the island of Malta.” (Acts 28: 1, NLT)

Those very words seemed to leap off the page. Or perhaps God was using His megaphone. Not sure. But I know His Word sank deep into my soul as it brought new revelation to me – – –

Sometimes we have no idea where we’re going until we land safe at shore.

When life throws its uncertainties at us, we want to know the outcome. We even desire to control the outcome. As the waves pound and the winds howl, we want to know the direction we are headed.

But sometimes, we need to trust Him and go for the ride, knowing He will take us safely into shore.

And here’s the thing about the shore ….

“The people of the island were very kind to us. It was cold and rainy, so they built a fire on the shore to welcome us.” (Acts 28: 2, NLT)

The place we land will be a place which welcomes us. There will be a fire waiting to warm us, bringing the comfort of safety and community and family.

Sometimes we have no idea where we’re going until we land safe at shore.

The very place where the storm and safety meet.

The shore.

Wake up.

The shore is in sight.

Trust Him. Trust His ways.

Go.