Read: Isaiah 46:3-13
I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. (v. 4)
Albert and Dorthea, 92 and 93 years old, respectively, had moved into their dream home in the early 1970s. The modest, single-story, three-bedroom house was paid for. They fully intended to care for each other and live out their final days within those very walls. The panoramic view of the lake, given this peninsular stretch of land, refueled their tired bodies with beauty each evening as they sat on the front porch and watched the setting sun dance off the shimmering surface of water. They were content and life was good.
As the sirens went off that beautiful afternoon, Albert and Dorthea evacuated, along with their neighbors. They couldn’t possibly know at that moment that their home would take a direct hit from the powerful onslaught of water or that they would never return to live there.
Our Lord doesn’t promise protection from calamity, but he does promise to journey with us through it. In the frailty of old age, he promises companionship and comfort even as we feel lonely and afraid. He promises strength even as we are weary. Tired bones and muscles might heave under the weight of the earth’s burdens, but he proclaims that he will carry us, yes, even on wings as eagles (Isa. 40:31)!
Our faith is not in our homes nor physical possessions. Are they important? Of course they are! But our faith is in God alone. Let him carry you too. —Tammy DeRuyter
As you pray, remember those times when you struggled, then praise him for getting you through.
About the Author
Tammy DeRuyter is a former stockbroker turned student of theology and history. She holds master’s degrees in both from Fuller Theological Seminary and Central Michigan University. Married for more than 25 years to Michael, an ordained RCA pastor, they have three emerging, young adult children ages 20, 21, and 22—the youngest of whom was adopted at 11.
