CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Have you ever felt all alone in the world, with your pain seeming like they weren't budging, yet you felt you were all alone? At times like this, we somehow manage to live life.

Mark’s heart broke to hear these words, but he knew what had to be done. He promised Susan that each morning and evening he would ride the bus with her, for as long as it took, until she got used to it. For weeks, Mark, military uniform and all, accompanied Susan to and from work each day. He taught her how to rely on her hearing, to determine where she was and how to adapt to her new environment. He helped her befriend the bus drivers who could watch out for her, and save her a seat each time. Susan finally decided that she was ready to try the trip on her own. Monday morning before she left, she threw her arms around Mark, her temporary bus-riding companion, her husband, and her best friend. Her eyes filled with tears of gratitude for his loyalty, his patience, and his love. She said good-bye, and they went their separate ways. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday…Each day on her own wasn't bad, and she'd never felt better. She was going to work all by herself. On Friday morning, Susan took the bus to work as usual. As she was paying the fare to exit the bus, the driver said, “Boy, I sure do envy you.” She wasn’t sure if he was speaking to her or not. "Who would envy a blind woman, struggling to live", she thought. Curious, she asked the driver, “Why do you envy me?” “It must feel good to be taken care of and protected like you are.” He said. Having no idea what the driver was talking about, she asked, “What do you mean?” “You know, every morning for the past week, a fine-looking gentleman in a military uniform has been standing across the corner watching you as you get off the bus. He makes sure you cross the street safely and he watches until you enter your office building. Then he blows you a kiss, gives you a little salute and walks away. You are one lucky lady.” Tears of happiness poured down Susan’s cheeks.

For although she couldn’t physically see him, Mark was there nonetheless. The reason we see only one set of footprints on the sand, is because He carried us. He knows when our physical strength abates, so He steps in at such times.

Have you become frustrated because you think you're all alone in your trials? I bring you word this morning. "God's in that storm with you". You might not be able to see but He's closer than you think. Nudging, and cheering you on. He's your light in that darkness. Like Mark to Susan, God is there in, and through our trials. We might have lost our sight and we are struggling. Like Mark to Susan, He follows you daily. He goes with you as you take the bus, and as you come off, He's there. Blowing you kisses, and saluting you because he knows you can do it. Don't be scared of doing what you ought to do; Just Do It, because you're not alone. He's closer than you think!