| Psalm 78:52 – “But he led his own people like a flock of sheep, guiding them safely through the wilderness.” |
The farm where I lived as a child had a really long driveway, or at least it seemed long to me as a little girl. When I was in kindergarten, I rode a bus to the school that was a few miles away. One day, it started snowing very heavily and we were sent home early. The snow was so intense and the winds so strong, you could not see many of the homes from the road! Our elementary principal Mr. K rode the bus with us and walked each of us to our door, so he was sure we got into our homes safely. When the bus got to my farm, I was pretty scared. Mr. K took my hand, and we started walking toward my house which was invisible in the snow. He told me that the school had called my dad and that he would be looking for us. Mr. K held my hand tightly as we walked through the blizzard, and I started to feel safe, and also, I felt important to him, knowing that he would take the time to walk me home. He was patient as my tiny legs struggled through the deepening snow. About halfway to the house, I heard my dad walking toward us. I could not see him yet, but I heard his voice. Finally, I was able to make out his features and was so relieved! He thanked Mr. K for walking me home, who then turned to go back to the bus that was waiting on the side of the road. There were several other children he was responsible for as well. Dad held my hand as we walked the rest of the way to the house where he helped me get out of my wet clothes and boots.
As I read today’s verse, I was reminded of this incident from so many years ago. The wilderness I experienced was a blizzard of howling winds and a wall of heavy snow that obscured my view. Without Mr. K’s guidance, who knows where I would have wandered and if I would have even found my house. How much more does our heavenly father want to guide us if we but let him. Even when we are afraid and unable to see the path before us, we can trust that he will lead us safely home.
Prayer: Dear Father – thank you for your guidance during the difficult times of my life. Help me to reach out and take your hand, and to not be afraid. You can see the road ahead, even when I cannot. Thank you for the love you show each day to lead me in paths of safety. Amen
Betty Gossell
