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Breathe and Begin Again

there is certainty in our uncertainty

Beginning, Faith

I picked up the book Searching for Certainty by Shelly Miller shortly after it released in mid-October of 2020. Something about it just pulled at my heart and I knew that this was the message I needed to hear. My heart and mind were weary from 2020- the uncertainty, the constant questions, the unexpected quarantines, the extra stress at work and at home. Then the rescheduling of a trip to Maine to see my mom- twice- and then just choosing to leave a credit on my account with American Airlines, because I had no idea when to try again.

I wanted certainty. I wanted something to go according to plan. I longed for it.

Just a week after the book arrived in my mailbox I started seeing posts on social media that the author, Shelly Miller, had unexpectedly and suddenly passed away. I was just a few chapters into her story when it happened. I was shocked. It took me a few days to pick up the book again. How could an author, just releasing a book be gone 2 weeks later? She had book launch activities, interviews, celebrating! Where was the certainty? She had family and kids and my heart ached for them.

Now, as I read Shelly’s words, I was also realizing these were her last words. That this book was  a part of her legacy. These last words compiled in a book for all to read. And this truth stuck out to me:

“It is human nature to turn inward, self-reflect, and assess current uncertainty through the lens of our circumstances. But God requires something different from us. Look up and make eye contact with him amid the disruptions of life.” ~Shelly Miller

I continue to read, underline and consider her words through November and December.  How often I do this very thing- look at uncertainty through my current circumstance. I need to be looking up at God, staying focused right there and trusting in His big picture.

And here we are now, at the beginning of a new year. Magic didn’t happen when we flipped the calendar from 2020 to 2021. The uncertainty of 2020 has not abated at all- but my mindset has changed- because what I’ve learned from Shelly’s book is that there IS certainty in our uncertainty- and this truth allows us to face 2021 with that certainty close to our hearts.

Our words matter, pursuing our goals matter, writing books, loving our families, serving others- doing what God has called us to do matters TODAY- it all matters. We truly never know when we won’t be able to do it again.

I think about Shelly’s family, especially her kids and I think about this gift she has given them with her words. What a comfort that must be.  I remember when my father passed away, my mother asked me what I might want that belonged to him.  I asked for his words, something in his handwriting. I wanted to touch the paper that his hand glided across and to see his familiar script on the page. She gave me his prayer book.

I won’t be perfect. I’ll stumble and forget…but Lord willing may I be found more often with my eyes up and remembering the truths that are certain more than anything else.

So, what does 2021 have for you?

Rachel

 

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January 4, 2021 · Leave a Comment

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rachel.latham.writer

I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in you I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in your words. My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise. Psalm 119:147-148
#powersheets #breatheandbeginagain #hopewriters #powersheets #breatheandbeginagain #hopewriters
Every day lately seems a mix of light and dark. Ha Every day lately seems a mix of light and dark. Hard things press in and it takes intentional effort to focus on the light.  But there is light and it is far more powerful than the dark. #breatheandbeginagain
Christmas cards have fallen away for a long time a Christmas cards have fallen away for a long time and I’ve hung on to the tradition. Maybe this year it should be revived? Maybe a thoughtful letter enclosed in a card that brings words of hope is just the thing. Maybe we could even expand out of our usual lists and look for those in our church or community that could use the extra love ❤️ #breatheandbeginagain #athrillofhope #hopewriters
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