Once Found, Always Found

My whole adult life and perhaps longer I have been an expert at losing things. Money, keys, my glasses, my favorite pen, a comb, a certain jacket, or the right shoes - the list is endless. I wish I could say once found, always found. Most of the time I can't say that, especially when it comes to glasses and keys.

These thoughts were far from my mind last Saturday when my conscientious husband called me with the surprise suggestion that he stop his duties at noon and we would go eat down town. We talked about a number of things but our conversation was peppered with comments about his upcoming trip to Uganda. This was to be our return trip after six years. Our memories of the places and the people are rich. Although our missionaries would be gone, there are still a number of strong Ugandan Christians who would act as anchors for our time there. Other factors came into play and the decision was made that he will go alone. Although I know it is not so, I have this irrational idea that he would be safer if I went with him. Practicality calls for information about life insurance and what should be done with different assets as well as when he will update his will. Some of the necessary details seem unpleasant but important none the less.

As much as I enjoyed the lunch I enjoyed far more his desire to be with me instead of working on his never ending list of chores. As we left the sandwich shop he grabbed my hand and suggested we explore some of the small shops in the quaint downtown area which stood in stark contrast to malls with their big box anchor stores. We stood arm in arm waiting for the light to change. Two women were chatting nearby.

One said to the other about a mutual friend. "It's been an awful year for her. How terrible that she lost her husband."

I pulled Steve closer so my words would land on his ears only. "You will never be lost. No matter what happens I'll know where you are."

Even if the plane would crash or he would be attacked by terrorists or his car would be hit by a Ugandan vehicle, I would know that he was in the Father's hands and far safer in light of eternity than anywhere else he could be. My presence would not make him anymore found than he was those many years ago when he trusted himself to his savior for the first time. Neither could I make him lost like my keys or glasses have been so many times. I am the one without the power having no choice but to rely completely on the one who is all powerful.

By the way do put on your calendar to pray for Steve as he prepares for his teaching duties, and as he leaves 8/15 and returns 9/17.

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