Wednesday, January 24, 2007


Guess what I'm doing this weekend?

My husband and I are flying to Orlando to meet the moving truck; we are closing the Orlando-bound-chapter-of my sons life. We arrive on Saturday, will hastily pack up his apartment and meet the moving truck which will load-it-all-up and move-it-on-north!

Since it was first decided that he was moving south, we covered him with prayer and began to feel a peace that this was part of God's plan for our son's life. It was a reluctant goodbye, with so many uncertainties and so much at stake, still there were some things I knew for sure. Every step I took after he left for such a long distance from home was supported by my faith, not in well-laid plans or hoped-for outcome, but in the promise of God; the One who loves my prodigal more than me. Just listen:

"My children's hearts devise their ways, but You, LORD, direct their steps." Proverbs 16:9

"You heal my children, the broken in heart, and bind up their wounds." Psalm 147:3

"You keep track of my children's wanderings. You put their tears into Your bottle. Are they not in Your book?" Psalm 56:8

"I am confident of this very thing, that You who have begun a good work [in my son] and will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

These are the same verses I rest on as my son has now returned to Minneapolis. His life circumstances are no more certain than when he left for Orlando months ago; still my heart is filled with peace.

"Don't worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to Me. And My peace, which passes all understanding, will keep your heart and mind through Jesus Christ." Philippians 4:6-7

While he continues to struggle with a truckload of difficulty, our son is making progress. Our God, the very One to whom I have surrendered my prodigal, is more than able to do the good work He has begun.

So while I pack my small duffle bag and close up this chapter of my prodigal's journey, my feelings are--honestly--bittersweet. On the one hand, I am saying a good-bye of sorts to a deeply hoped-for-answer to a decades worth of prayer! And with the other hand, fully extended towards heaven, I welcome with great anticipation the revelation of God's redemptive work in the life of my prodigal.

"Is anything too difficult for the Lord?" (Genesis 18:14) No! Nothing!

"You heal my children, the broken in heart, and bind up their wounds" Psalm 147: 3

Guess what I'm doing this weekend??? I think the more interesting question is Guess what God is doing in my life, in your life, in the life of our children! In fact, there's really no guessing about it--His Word is clear! Even when circumstances feel like we are stalling, we are, in fact, moving safely forward, guided by His divine will for our lives.

14 comments:

someone else said...

Your courage and optimism show so clearly. I hope this next chapter will be one of your son being a "miracle in progress" rather than a "prodigal". He certainly is blessed for having you as a parent. Safe travels!

Heather Smith said...

I pray you'll have a safe trip! And as always, I'm praying that God will continue to be with you daily!!!

Kristen said...

Those are great verses to rely on.

I'm hoping that your son has success and health back in Minneapolis.

Travel safely!

Linda said...

I'm new to your blog so don't know the whole story, but I hear the cry of you "mother heart". I pray all will go well with the move. Be safe. We all pray for God's best in the lives of our children. He takes us all down different path - but He is always there no matter where we are. I pray He will draw your son close and direct his steps.
Blessings to you.

Sema said...

AMEN, AMEN, AMEN, to every scripture you quoted. God has amazing things in store for your family and especially your beloved son. He indeed is our Solid Rock in whom we trust, eh?
Enjoy the warm weather on our behalfs!

Tina said...

Have fun!

Dawn said...

It has been quite a journey so far, hasn't it? I'm trusting with you for good days ahead - for ALL of you!

Brigitte said...

"Even when circumstances feel like we are stalling, we are, in fact, moving safely forward, guided by His divine will for our lives."

You faith is encouraging to me Diane. God bless you!

Janice (5 Minutes for Mom) said...

you are such a wonderful mom!!! you rock!

rena said...

Did you ever see this day coming? In your hearts eye, I suspect. Enjoy the trip and the wonder of the Lord who is working all things together for the good to you who loves Him and are called according to His purpose.

Anonymous said...

YEA! Be careful, and I'm praying.

:D

Your determination to hold onto the promises in the Word inspire me. Thank you.

Valerie said...

Beautiful post!!!! I pray that you've had a safe journey.

Cheryl said...

I pray for your son that he will be in this new place like a tree planted by living waters...his leaf shall not wither, and he will be a continual fruit bearer.

C. H. Green said...

I hope your son knows how blessed he is to have a praying mama who supports his decisions and life changes. Keep holding on Diane. A wind of change is moving in his life. God is able.