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Friendship, Seaside, and Christ for Strength:Be the best you can be!(Matt. 5:48)

by Teresa O'Driscoll⁽⁵⁾
http://teresaodriscoll.co.uk

I awoke feeling vaguely uneasy though the day was bright and sunny and I was happy to still be on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu. The feeling grew though until I acknowledged that I was fearful of the next stage in my life; of going back to Britain after living abroad for almost two decades. A dear friend text me at that point asking how I was. I replied positively then asked: But am I in the eye of the storm?

I knew that it was time for me to walk, pray and think.

As I strolled along the deserted sandy beach I remembered Christ’s instructions in the Sermon on the Mount on the futility of worrying: “…do not worry about tomorrow; it will have enough worries of its own. There is no need to add to the troubles each day brings.” (Matt. 6:34) I looked around and tried to savour the splendour of the moment. Paddling along the water’s edge in my wellingtons I watched a lone seagull gliding in tall blue skies. Its graceful motion was soothing.

As I neared the end of the long beach - punctuated by a high sandstone cliff, which I noticed for the first time was shaped just like a cowboy boot - I was feeling better. Straight ahead over a few kilometres of calm petrol-blue sea, the snow-capped mountains of Albania showed faintly through a haze formed by the warm sun kissing the icy water.

I turned back and retraced my steps. A light wind was now blowing on my face and forming white lace at the sea’s edge. It put me in mind of when Elijah, hiding in a cave in fear for his life was visited by God in a gentle breeze to strengthen and guide him. (1 Kings 19:11-12) I took comfort from that.

Approaching the end of my walk I suddenly thought, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Ph. 4:13) I resolved to enjoy the day and work diligently at my projects knowing that God was with me always, helping and guiding me. And that through Jesus I would be able to adapt and cope with everything in my life, including repatriation.

When I arrived home my friend text me, beginning with: “Philippians 4:13 J …” How cool is that! Symfonia (one accord) as the Greeks say. God bless her for her friendship in Christ! Godly friends give good advice. (Pr 12:26)

Article submitted Saturday, March 26, 2011 & read 912 times.

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» left by Teresa Ortiz (1 year 42 days ago.)

Hi Teresa. I love this! You had my riding along with you and brought my heart a smile. Thank you for sharing this encouraging word. What a blessing it is when we catch ourselves gripped by fear and follow it up with some time with our Lord. A great reminder for all of us! So glad you are here :-) Teresa

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