Tuesday, January 12, 2010

a new journey

Well, today I am starting a new journey. A journey through the book of Esther. And I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am. I KNOW that God is placing me right where I need to be. Hallelujah! It all started with the group lesson. As the speaker was telling us that God's name is not directly mentioned in this book and how this does not mean that God is not present. That there is as much to learn about God in a place where He does not make himself obvious as in a place where He does. That there are times God works through miracles...but there are times God works through individuals and the natural. So, as you can imagine, after hearing this I was already in tears by the time we broke to small groups. Thank goodness God placed me in a group of the most amazing women....I can already tell :) I didn't really know the women in there, but knew a couple of them through a very close mutual friend. I had been nervous for a few days before today about meeting my small group. So funny...I know... I love meeting new people and making new friends, but I KNEW we would have to go around and introduce ourselves and that inevitably everyone would be telling the group about their children. So, of course as soon as the first person started I was already in tears. Which I am sure scared them to death! Well, I made it through my turn and of course told them I had a son in August who went to be with our Lord in September. It still kills me every time I have to say those words. Simply kills me. But, I made it through. And I have to say, I just know that God has placed me with this wonderful group of women for a reason...just as He placed me in this study....and is guiding me through this journey. I absolutely love it when I can feel His presence and His word so clearly. Thank you God for holding me tight when I need it most. Thank you for working through my friends to bring me peace and uplift me when I am too weak. Thank you God for loving me despite my emotions...through all of my ups and through all of my downs. Thank you God for never leaving my side...even when I think you have.

6 comments:

  1. You don't know me, but I pray for you every night. I know this study far too well. May you be blessed beyond your wildest imaginations as God shows you things you never thought of and continues to heal you through the words of this incredible book and the insights in the study.
    in Him ~
    Kelley

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  2. Oh, Jess, tears flowed from my eyes as I read this post. I am so excited for you as you begin this study. It's been a LONG time since I read the book of Esther (high school) and now you've intrigued me to read it again. I didn't remember that God was not mentioned but do remember what an impact the book made on me. Hmmmmmm, I've finished my CBS study for the week and Trent has a meeting tonight, so maybe I'll curl up with the book of Esther. Thank you for continuing to be an inspiration to me! Love you, Jill

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  3. Jessica
    I am going through this study right now and love it. I have no doubt that you will feel and hear our our faithful Father. I am praying for you and hope that you can find a little more peace each day on this journey. How Great is our God!
    Becca Smith

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  4. sweet, jessica! i continue to pray for you and ryan.

    love you!
    julie mckinney scarborough

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  5. Jess, I am about to start this study with a few friends here in Denver. I am honored to share even a small part of your life. I pray that I will even think of you more as we grow in the Word together. God is good. I love you. Anna

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  6. You are such an amazing woman. I am so saddened by your loss but so thankful that you have an AWESOME God to help you in your journey. I had brain surgery in Dec. 8th and i discovered the song, Footprints in the Sand" by Leona Lewis. It listened to it every day. I was so scared and as soon as I played it I knew that God would be with me through my surgery and recovery. God Bless. Sandi
    Listen to it when you wake up because it will remind you that He is with us always.

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