The famous line from the movie, 'Galaxy Quest', 'Never Give Up, Never Surrender', rings forth as my heart's cry this day. On our way to church yesterday morn, I could feel the warmth and pain begin to sweep across my forehead, knowing full well that it was going to be one of those days. I unfortunately was correct. As my beloved husband helped me to my seat, I had the overwhelming peace of coming home. A home that sadly I have been unable to attend for quite sometime. A home that wherever I look, I see faces of loved ones I hold dear. We have called this church our home for almost 18 years now. It's name, 'Sanctuary', means just that. It is and shall always be my safe haven.
As glorious worship filled the room, I sat quietly in my chair. Unable to sing along, let alone speak or stand at length, I closed my eyes and drank in every voice singing out in Praise. And as the pain remained in strength, with another, 'episode', following another, a twinge of fear pricked my mind, trying to invade my thoughts. My soul cried out, "NO"! I will, "Never Give Up, Never Surrender"!
So, I laid the pain, anguish, and all that accompanies at the foot of the Cross. There would be sweet moments when I would find my voice and sing out in unison with all those surrounding me. And though throughout the service my episodes continued, to the point of needing a cooler area to sit and listen, I continued to find my strength and peace there at, 'Sanctuary'.
Even on my hardest days, I know that He is here sustaining me. Giving me the strength to live a life of meaning, joy, and laughter in the midst of my falling tears. You see, life is a priceless gift. But, it is what we choose to do with that gift that shapes us. My prayer is one which hopes even on my darkest days, I will exemplify one holding onto a Savior whom loves me. Who loves us all. To epitomize a life transcended by Mercy and Grace. And for my children to continue to walk these shores, no matter what may come their way.
