Last week was one of my most frustrating weeks that I can recall in the recent history of my life.
My house had just gotten insulated, and the very next morning after that project, my heat went.
Add to this, that they were some of the coldest days that I can recall, with temperatures feeling like minus degrees.
Every time I thought I’d solved for one issue, a new one arose.
A few weeks prior, a good friend from my church had told me that if I ever had an emergency, I should call – no matter what time it was. I laughed at the offer. I’m not one to call anyone, especially not the wee hours of the morning.
As I encountered what felt like a real emergency, I found myself dialing the number because I didn’t know what else to do. The answer on the other end provided a sense of relief. I didn’t feel so alone as I struggled through this heating issue, while the rest of the world slept.
After a full day of working with different individuals to solve different issues, I woke up the next morning, once again feeling uneasy. Because I’d already experienced some days of what felt like real trauma, I decided to knock on my neighbors’ door. This was right as the snow storm was beginning. While I had woken him and his wife up, he graciously came to help me diagnose if I had an issue. After a few minutes, him in person, and two of my church friends who had been walking this journey with me, we made the decision to switch off my boiler – even as the snow was starting to come down.
A few days prior to that, when I thought my boiler woes were behind me, I offered to return the heaters my friend had loaned me – her answer was ‘don’t bring them yet. I don’t think your issue is done’. Even now, I stand in amazement at that statement. Somehow, the Lord had given her words and wisdom for me to wait a little longer.
There are so many who came to my rescue in different ways. I had multiple offers of places I could ride out the storm if necessary. I had my church family praying for me. And helping me in very practical ways.
I ultimately needed a new boiler, and even in that, the person who provided the help was so gracious.
Psalm 23:1 ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.’ NIV
Please pray for those who don’t have a warm and safe place to stay.
Dear Heavenly Father, I’m so grateful that you don’t leave us alone, no matter what we are going through. And while I describe the situation as frustrating, I can still see your hand of protection all over. There were so many instances that I felt cared for by my friends and loved ones – too many to mention here, but, thank you for all the ways you provide.