Finally!

“Finally, we can be out here!” A sweet woman riding her bicycle on the path next to me exclaimed and smiled. The cooler temperatures of this approaching new season are something to get excited about. I was thankful for her smile and comment as my thoughts were beginning to drift remembering the latest storm as I watched groundskeepers clean up fallen branches and debris.

As I watched them haul off large tree trunks I recalled the images seen on television from the devastation of September 11th, 2001 as we just passed the 10 year anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Remnants of that particular storm remain in our hearts tempting us to be paralyzed with fear and forget that even in the storms of life God is near.

So often in my own storms I am tempted to doubt and fear. I am thankful for vows in the recesses of my heart to “NEVER FORGET” and for the simple smile, truths and prayers of girlfriends—sweet sisters who are tenaciously seeking a relationship with our Father. So many times God has used a girlfriend to remind me that He is near. And, today is no different as this woman’s smile and word “finally” resonates in my mind.

Later the same woman on the bicycle came up from behind me a little wearier from her ride and began to share with me the dysfunction and disappointment found in her recent spiffed up bicycle. Apparently, she has been preparing for this upcoming season and had her bicycle repaired.

I just loved that this woman who I had just met began to share her minor trouble. Are you courageous enough to share your struggles with another? I know I am often tempted to cover up the struggles in my heart.

I sensed God nudging me to remind her…encourage her just as she had brought my wayward thoughts minutes earlier… and I simply said "Praise God we are here! Finally…we are here!"

If God is currently still working on you and cleaning up some debris in your life…please join me in exclaiming…finally! It's by no means perfect, but we are riding in this journey...all of us are a work in progress.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. (Eph 6:10)

Finally, my sisters, rejoice in the Lord! (Phil 3:1)

Finally, sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think of such things. (Phil 4:8)

Finally, sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. (2 Thes 3:1)

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as sisters, be compassionate and humble. (1 Peter 3:8)