So, in bible study, we are studying Genesis and we are currently studying the chapter where God promises Abram protection. We were asked to reflect upon times when God has protected us, even amidst our bad decisions. Well, I've made my share of those! :P But today, I had a very present feeling that I was definitely being protected. I'm currently "on tour" in Kentucky. A few weeks ago, I was cleaning up some glass at the playground and got a sliver in my finger. No big deal, I figured it would work it's way out. Well, now it's driving me crazy. I mentioned it in my lecture and received an over pouring response of home remedies. Even crazy things I've never heard of. I am, after all, in Kentucky. ;) We can't help it. We are all therapists and we LOVE to help people. It was like being in a room full of "Me's". If you mention a challenge, we all jump at the opportunity to help. So, I head out to a local pharmacy to get said Gramma Cures and I had a nice time with the pharmacist who was a delightful lad who even called other stores in the area to try and help me find weird salves. I felt like I was being stalled significantly, but I was really in no hurry anyhow. After much searching, he finally found the stuff behind a counter that I needed. Two other techs had looked previously. If they had found it quickly, I would have been on my way to Louisville a few minutes earlier.
So, I get on my way and am passed by enourmous amounts of emergency crews. It was surreal. Literally over five ambulances and eight fire trucks passed by me on this little two lane road leading to the interstate. I figured it must have been a large accident on the interstate. Well, as I traveled along, I found that I was only the 20th or so car in a long line that led up a hill. Stopped cold. Since I have no idea where I am and no GPS system, I see people gathered up on top of the hill and decide to ask for directions on alternative routes to get to the interstate that will take me to my next destination. Although, I couldn't actually see anything (and wasn't trying extremely hard) there was a large wreck at the bottom of the hill. I was told that the road was going to close and at that point two lifeline helicopters began to hover. I was suddenly struck with the realization that if I had been a little earlier, I could have been at the bottom of that hill. If you are reading this close to the posting, please say a quick prayer for those involved in the crash and their families.
As a further provision, I was provided with a very sweet lady who was also headed my way and she offered to let me follow her back another route. I'm so glad she was there, it was some serious Kentucky backroads....
So, now I'm in my hotel and I'm so very grateful for all of the protection that God routinely shows to me and those I love. I pray he will protect the hearts of those who were involved in the accident today. I know His good will utlimately prevail, but I hope that it is as unpainful as possible for those involved in it. Since I was a child, I have always made a point to say a quick prayer for the crew and people involved whenever I see an ambulance or emergency vehicle in route. Please join me tonight for the families in need of prayer around Frankfurt, KY near Interstate 64.....
She loved winding up the Weeping Santa to hear the music.
My other special nativity, stained glass from my college years.
Rob is a real trooper. He's a Grinch by nature, but he does his best to be Merry for me.
Grammy and Pawpop even got in on the festivities this year.
Andy got in on the tradition of hot cocoa under the tree. Well, in spirit anyhow.
Here Suzy is explaining the baby Jesus to Andy. Very precious.
