After a two month absence from home while participating in a mission trip to Africa, our sixteen year old daughter, Megan, was returning home. She had traveled with thirty-two strangers from the United States and Canada to a remote village in southeast Africa where poverty and life threatening diseases are epidemic, to build an emergency rescue shelter for AIDS orphans and spread the good news about Jesus Christ.
Communication from Megan had been sparse. We received a phone call when she arrived for “boot camp” in Florida, a second call before she boarded her flight to Africa, and a handful of letters detailing her experiences. We had spent the past few days preparing our home to welcome back our baby girl, hanging welcome banners, posters and letters from family and friends, re-stocking the pantry with favorite foods, etc.
At last we’re going to get our girl back! During the drive to the airport, I recalled the emotional and spiritual challenges I’d experienced associated with her trip. Every imaginable scenario had crossed my mind. “What if she becomes ill – will medical help be accessible? What if she gets separated from the group – how will she re-connect? What if she needs something? What if she needs me?” In those moments of anxiety, I turned to God through prayer and scripture and found true peace of mind by entrusting Megan to His care.
It was wonderful seeing and hugging my daughter again! After our little family reunion, I offered a prayer of thanks to God for returning her to our care and for the promise of His peace in every situation.
Memory Verse:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
– John 14:27 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Thank You, God, for Your promise of peace, especially when we feel anxious or afraid. Help us to put our trust in You in every situation. Help me in my current situation of…”
Contributing Writer:
Vicki Beck
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