Morning Worship

Most people have the notion of OFW’s being invincible – they think we are immune to heartaches, pains, sadness and even physical illness. Most people think that because we live in a foreign land, we live like we are tourists on vacation – they couldn’t be farther from the truth.

At times when everything becomes too much to bear – the pressure and stress from work; a budget that is stretched far too thin; disagreement between parents; friend’s and relatives’ monetary problems; a sibling’s visa problems arising from a sudden decision to resign from work – I can’t help but question “while I try to help and take care of my loved one’s concerns and problems who will take care and comfort me?”

The answer came to me in a small slip of paper…

For the personal reflection part of the prayers during our first morning worship, we were asked the take slips of paper with bible verses written on it.

“As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you”

                                                                                   -   Isaiah 66:13

As I read mine and choose a spot to sit on and reflect, a wave of emotions came over me.

I felt sudden comfort and relief. Here on this inconspicuous slip of paper, clear as the blue skies above that day, is God’s assurance that I need not worry and bear the weight of life’s uncertainties alone, he is there to help and comfort me if only I would let him.

I also felt ashamed and embarrassed at how I can be of little faith. Here I am with all these questions not realizing that in every struggle God has never failed to pull me through.

It struck me how God seemed to be directly speaking to me and addressing my questions in a subtle yet powerful way. I have never experienced anything like it before and I was overwhelmed.

I now keep this precious piece of paper with me at all times, as a reminder that I only have to acknowledge God’s presence, put my trust in him and surely I will find comfort.

It is also the same verse that I shared with my friend who recently confided how she felt stressed, weary and in great emotional pain as she tries to handle life's adversaries while showing a brave face for her family and friends despite feeling broken inside.

She felt emotional and cried when I shared the verse and I knew that though still emotional, like me she will find comfort with God.

And for all of this may God be praised!