Peace In The Valley
Peace in the Valley
About this time last year things were rolling along-like a roller coaster. You know the one that you think is gonna be a breeze-the one all the little kids want to ride. So, you get in the car that’s a little small for you, lower the safety bar and the ride takes off and clicks along. Just as you settle in and start to relax it speeds up and starts jolting you side to side, then back and forth and before you know it you are being whipped around like a bobble head in a toddlers hands.
Honestly, there’s no way I’d remember what was going on prior to last year at about this time. However, it has been brought to my attention that other folks have had reoccurring trials during this time of the year and therefore I was prompted to think back; and boy was I enlightened.
Is it Mercury or is it Lent? I dunno, but I’d like to add that there are other times of the year that I’ve realized to be a time of reoccurring bumpiness. Whatever you choose to blame it on I hope you stay strapped in and gain strength to hold on for the ride; and then come out on the other side of that low point to raise your hands and enjoy the view from the top of the highest hill.
I’ve been to places where quaint little towns were built in the valley. Quiet refuge was found there at one time and people settled into a life in the bases of the high mountains. Safety and shelter was sought from the winds and cold on the mountains that surrounded them, and was found there in the valley. As I took in the beauty of the little town nestled there, I could almost feel the peace they must share. The sun was beaming a single ray of light straight through the break in the peaks, down onto the village and bathing it with late day light. Beautiful. They surely found solace there as they built their town; their homes, businesses and churches.
I urge you to seek to find peace in your valley. Take a moment to look up and bask in the light. Walk along the rocky path with the comfort of the hand that holds tight and walks along with you. He doesn’t ever slip on the rocks. He never tarries behind you. If you tire, He’ll carry you and when you’re beaten and sore from the whiplash of the ride, He will bring you salve, healing and rest.
I don’t welcome the crushing lows of the ride where it feels as if my body is being stuffed into the seat of the hard ride, but I remember the weightless feeling while cresting the top of that clickety-climb and the tingling in my bones that I may just fly right out of my seat. Hands in the air, powerless to contain my glee and only a bar across my lap to hold me from jetting across the freeway on that crazy roller coaster...why do we put ourselves in such a risky situation? Even more so, why do we leave ourselves open to an even more risky situation facing the days without a lifesaver?
Not me, I know there are valleys ahead for me, but I’m prepared. I’ve got a trek mapped out for me and I’m packed up and ready to measure each step. I want to savor the surroundings and learn from them. Trusting my guide, I want to ask questions and ponder each click along the ride as they prepare me for the climb ahead and then let that uncontrollable shout of exhilaration burst forth when I reach the top. Then, legs wobbling, eyes alight, I want the joy that's plastered on my face to excite those in line behind me and empower them to move forward and experience the same!
I know I won’t be in the valley for long, but I also know it’s part of the trip. There’s no way around, so I’ve got to go through. But that’s okay, I know the way. Ticket stamped, fast pass purchased, destination located-full steam ahead!
I get closer to Him with each crazy ride.
