In my distress I called
upon the Lord...
Psalm 18:6a
Several key persons in Anthony's life are dying, and his heart has been overwhelmed because of it...
upon the Lord...
Psalm 18:6a
Several key persons in Anthony's life are dying, and his heart has been overwhelmed because of it...
He shared this with me as we walked together in the yard.
I had the afternoon off from my work assignment. And though the weather was cold and dreary, I felt compelled to go outdoors. Then, once outside, I happened upon my Christian friend, Anthony. I could tell by his downcast countenance that he was in distress.
Anthony is doing a prison sentence of 25 years to life. He's a young black man who left behind a handful of children and a loving family when he got involved in drugs and ended up committing a series of crimes which landed him behind bars. But as he and I walked in circles around the yard's perimeter, Anthony told me of an array of illnesses that are presently plaguing several members of his family.
Sadly, those who've been the closest to him are nearing their deaths, he said. His aunt, whom he told me is the most gravely ill of the bunch, had been like a second mother to him. She helped raise Anthony as he grew up, oftentimes moving back and forth between relatives in both New York and South Carolina. Now, however, she may have only days to live because, according to her nephew, Diabetes has taken a heavy toll on her already frail frame. While a close cousin, a sister, and several uncles are very sick, too.
And as Anthony poured his heart out, I told him, "Brother, you need to trust God in this situation. You must ask the Lord to give your aunt the grace and strength to endure her ordeal." I then added that he needs to ask for help for himself, as well, so that he doesn't become overly discouraged and depressed. I said to him, "Anthony, let's just trust God and pray." And we did.
In a far corner of the yard, as snow began to fall around us, Anthony and I bowed our heads and quietly prayed. We put everything into the hands of Jesus Christ. Then, after an approximately ten-minute talk with Jesus, he and I resumed our walk.
I'm convinced the Holy Spirit led me to the yard today. This was a "divine appointment." God knew Anthony needed someone to talk to, and He met the need.
D.B.
I had the afternoon off from my work assignment. And though the weather was cold and dreary, I felt compelled to go outdoors. Then, once outside, I happened upon my Christian friend, Anthony. I could tell by his downcast countenance that he was in distress.
Anthony is doing a prison sentence of 25 years to life. He's a young black man who left behind a handful of children and a loving family when he got involved in drugs and ended up committing a series of crimes which landed him behind bars. But as he and I walked in circles around the yard's perimeter, Anthony told me of an array of illnesses that are presently plaguing several members of his family.
Sadly, those who've been the closest to him are nearing their deaths, he said. His aunt, whom he told me is the most gravely ill of the bunch, had been like a second mother to him. She helped raise Anthony as he grew up, oftentimes moving back and forth between relatives in both New York and South Carolina. Now, however, she may have only days to live because, according to her nephew, Diabetes has taken a heavy toll on her already frail frame. While a close cousin, a sister, and several uncles are very sick, too.
And as Anthony poured his heart out, I told him, "Brother, you need to trust God in this situation. You must ask the Lord to give your aunt the grace and strength to endure her ordeal." I then added that he needs to ask for help for himself, as well, so that he doesn't become overly discouraged and depressed. I said to him, "Anthony, let's just trust God and pray." And we did.
In a far corner of the yard, as snow began to fall around us, Anthony and I bowed our heads and quietly prayed. We put everything into the hands of Jesus Christ. Then, after an approximately ten-minute talk with Jesus, he and I resumed our walk.
I'm convinced the Holy Spirit led me to the yard today. This was a "divine appointment." God knew Anthony needed someone to talk to, and He met the need.
D.B.
