A Refuge Like No Other

I’ve got to be honest. I’ve been feeling a little lonesome this weekend. A little left out. Not left out on purpose, but left out because of circumstance. All three of my sisters have been involved in family visits the past few days, but not me. I’ve had to stay close to home. With Don’s mother’s health teetering on the edge of another crisis, we just don’t feel comfortable getting too far away.

My sister and brother-in-law from sunny Arizona are currently frolicking in sunny Florida with their son and his family (rough life, huh? :) ) while my other two sisters and their families have been enjoying a visit at my parents’ place this weekend. I’m happy for all of them and the fun they’re having together, but doggone it, I’d like to be right in the middle of it :) On the other hand, I feel kind of lethargic. Too weary to want to pack for a trip or have one more demand on our lives at this point.

So…I may not be in the middle of family fun right now, but you know what I am right in the middle of? I’m right in the middle of God’s ever present love and care. Yes, I may have missed some family hugs this weekend, but God’s arms are always open. Ever ready to wrap me in His loving embrace and assure me of His presence.

I’m so thankful that when I’m feeling a little lonesome, left out, or down for whatever reason, I can freely go to my heavenly Father and tell Him about it all. He knows our emotions play havoc with us at times, and He also knows there are times we hurt deeply. He stands ready to help us through it all. He is a refuge like no other.

Thanks for letting me share a bit of my heart with you today. I’m thankful for friends who care and lend an understanding ear. I’m thankful for you!

“Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Psalm 62:8

*Flickr photo by Wiking67

Comments

  1. If I were there, Cheryl, I’d give you a big hug. Then I’d take you out for a tall caramel cappucino with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles on top. :-)

    Love you, my friend!

  2. I know exactly how you feel, I experienced it through much of 2008, rarely seeing family and friends other than my husband, mother, and father…but not wanting to be far away from dad at the same time. Rest in the Lord’s arms, He will not let you go.

    Annette

  3. I think it’s natural to feel that way knowing your family is getting together. And it sounds like you’re either being the caretakers or on standby for other family so that can be stressful too. We’re sort of there with my in-laws at the moment. Many blessings to you.

  4. I’ve felt some of those feelings before; as a pastor’s wife, I often feel left out, not included, not considered, not remembered. It can be a lonely road for me at times, but like you, I am grateful for the continuing companionship of my Father who is faithful to tend to my needs for intimacy and companionship everyday.

    Also, so grateful for my blogging community. I know that I can count on you all!

    peace~elaine

  5. Jennifer, welcome to my blog! God bless as you help with your in-laws, too.

    Renae, Annette, & Elaine, thanks so much for your encouraging words. I appreciate each one of you!

  6. I’ll be there soon!! :)

    P.S. Will you have some ice cream at your house? I think I will need some :)

  7. Came to read at your blog linked fron Truth 4 the Journey…..
    I enjoyed and was “refreshed”
    Pray that the Lord will strenght you during the care of your Mil.

    Blessings
    Bernice

  8. Bernice, welcome! So glad you were refreshed by your visit — and thanks so much for your prayers!

    Kristin, can’t wait till you guys get here this weekend. I think I can arrange for some ice cream to be on hand :) I’ll let the flavor be a surprise! :)

  9. That was a beautiful post. God always whispers for me to trust him, He is the only one I will ever really need.

  10. Cheryl I’m done frolicking in Florida. :) The weather was very nice but the crowds were overwhelming at times and kept us from doing some activities. It was worth it, though, having the family together. Will write more later. I know how you felt, though. There have been many times I have felt left out living in AZ knowing the rest of the family was getting together. I think it was OK for you to have a little pitty party with all you’ve been through. It will make your time this weekend all the sweeter. Enjoy

  11. Debbie, done frolicking, huh? :)Glad to hear you guys had a wonderful time. Will look forward to hearing more and maybe seeing some pics :)

    T. Anne, so glad you enjoyed the post. Happy to have you stop by again!

  12. Cheryl, so you know, you and Don were missed and thought about very much! Janice

  13. I can so relate. I have the privilege of enjoying one of our children and her family most every day. But our son & his family live 500 miles away.

    I get so lonely for them sometimes.

    Thank you for this reminder of my Father’s loving arms wrapped around me.

    Jean

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