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Even though many people enjoy flying, I am not one of them. But I won't argue that it's wonderful being able to travel hundreds (or even thousands) of miles so much quicker than if in a car. Still, if given a choice, I'll take a car--thank you very much!
On a recent airplane trip back from Kansas, we encountered a lot of turbulence. Now for folks who fly frequently, this is probably no big deal. But to someone who doesn't fly very often--and doesn't enjoy flying--it was rather unsettling. Actually I should say it was VERY unsettling. As we literally bounced up and down, I felt almost as if I was riding a roller coaster (which I haven't done in years). Glancing around at other passengers seated near me, a few appeared concerned. But for the most part, the majority of the travelers didn't seem to be bothered by the bouncing (or they were hiding their feelings well!). Being very honest, I have to admit: I was scared.
I took in some deep breaths, and I prayed. Earnestly prayed for the Lord to keep us safe, no matter how stormy the weather might be, or how strong the turbulence was. Then I began silently reciting some of my favorite Bible verses of comfort. Not only reciting them, but actually thinking about what the verses said: God is in control. He is ALWAYS with me--whether my feet are planted firmly on the ground, or I'm thousands of feet in the air as I travel in an airplane. ~ Then an amazing thing happened: A calming peace washed over me, and I knew that no matter how bumpy the flight, God held me securely in His hands. Thankfully the flight became calmer not too much later, and we landed safely in Atlanta. But that experience was another reminder for me that no matter what storms we go through, our Lord is with us--leading us, watching over us, and always there to calm our fears. What a comforting thought! ~ ~ For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. II Timothy 1:7
Last weekend my husband and I flew to Kansas on a trip I'd been looking forward to for many months. We stayed at author Kim Vogel Sawyer's wonderful Bed & Breakfast, where she and husband Don made us feel right at home! One of the main reasons for the trip was to meet "in person" my friends from Australia, Rosie and Pete. Although Rosie and I had been corresponding for a while via e-mails and phone, we hadn't met face-to-face. So last year when she sent me an e-mail saying that she and her husband were planning a trip to the US and she wondered if I could come to Kansas to meet them, I was SO excited! The details were worked out and we began counting down the days. Author Judy Miller drove them from Topeka, and Author Carol Cox was able to join us on Saturday.
What a wonderful time we had---visiting, laughing, and eating (we ate so much yummy food!). Kim's kitties also made me feel at home, since I was away from mine for a few days. The time passed much too quickly, but I am so thankful and blessed to have spent a weekend with these precious Christian friends.
Even though Rosie and Pete live on the other side of the world, it was wonderful being with them and learning about their life in Australia. I especially enjoyed hearing them speak--with their British-sounding accents (although they said I was the one with the accent, haha).
I was reminded yet again of how much the Lord has blessed me--not only with my precious family, but also with special friends.
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly; and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24
