Then we got another picture, of this tiny little one all hooked up to machines and an IV. A picture is not only worth a thousand words but it can can truly turn your stomach upside down and bring immediate tears to flow. We were in Venice Italy, a country of many churches, and we were with friends whose birthrights and childhood stomping grounds originate from this very region. There were eight of us traveling together and talking about some serious prayer warriors whose faith runs deep; we were with them. As we gathered in a little cafe on the square of St Marks, after visiting a bit, and showing my latest picture, we prayed and Paola, our planner and navigator suggested that we find a church and light a candle. It was the perfect suggestion, for sometimes when you feel like you can't do anything, doing something helps, and being in a church always make me feel a little closer to God. St Mark's was closed and we wandered about for only a short while on our way to the theater, before we came upon a beautifully enamored church tucked away on a side alley. Upon entering we knew that God had clearly directed us to this very place. Wouldn't you know it: The candles were directly below a picture of Mary holding baby Jesus and the prayer, only in Italian was translated by our friends at dinner to read as follows:
Lord, the God of life, from the day on which the new existence and appeared in my womb, strongest and most exciting feeling in me Your loving presence.
The certainty that You watch over my baby, with a love more pure and stronger than mine; that its development, its nature are the subject of your exquisite attention, make me quiet anticipation.
Lord, you called me to collaborate with you in the construction of this little being; does that even work with you in preparing, by my word and my example, anything that will make easier the way of you in life.
Make me aware at last, the great richness of this period of waiting; the baby and the precious bridge that connects me closely to Thee, God the Creator and Lord.
Help me to live in contemplation and sanctity this fortunate contact of salvation.
That the concerns and fears of pregnancy not to spoil this trusting abandonment in Your active presence.
And you, Mary, you've been able to prepare yourself so worthily for the divine Motherhood, give me your faith, your courage, your love. Amen
To me, this was so indicative of God answering a prayer with a prayer right back to him! That is what he has called us to do. We were so far away, but God is always soooo close to every situation. We did light a candle and continued to light candles throughout our journey. We prayed for this baby but also for her parents. For we have all seen how things can turn around in the flash of an eye. And the restlessness of waiting and uncertainty set an emotional roller coaster in high gear.
The only preparation we have for life is faith, a true faith that God is on his throne and is not ever an absent overseer. We embrace that faith through prayer, having constant communication with a God that we cannot see but believe without a doubt that he is present in spirit. He is a loving, faithful mighty strength and power in times of trouble, a messenger of peace in times of chaos, and a blanket of comfort when the chills of sorrow have overcome us.
Olivia was in the hospital for about a week; the simple explanation was that her little body needed more oxygen, at least for a while to build up her strength and lung capacity. She is happily at home with her sister and mom and dad.
But my point in telling you this story is not really about this newborn baby but about God's presence in the midst of trail. God does hear our prayers and when things get going down a darkened road, he wants us to concentrate on HIM and his grace and power, not the circumstances. It is about prayer, and prayer and more prayer til you actually can sense a transformation in the depths of your soul. Bring whatever it is to God and lay down at his feet your fears, your emotions, your steadfast faith in his oversight, no matter how it turns out. Hard to do when things around you are swirling around in chaos but only through God's grace and identifying his presence do we fine our ultimate peace.
Dear Lord, thank you for being an all present stronghold in times of trouble. Thank you for your constant reminder that wherever we are, you are too. Amen
I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
Psalm 16:8
Praise God wherever you are and whatever situation He has allowed you to be in . . . His glory will shine through!
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