My help comes from the Lord

Psalm 121

2014 so far has been the most emotional year of my life. It was a year filled with many highs and lows. January 1, 2014 began the journey towards graduation for my daughter and college in the fall. It also was a week before my sister would have surgery to see if her cancer was back. The New Year also begins the build up towards Spring and a busy time in my job.  I was also dealing with health issues for both of my parents.

Two weeks later we found out my sister’s tumor was benign, but that day my father found out he had cancer and it was bad. My daughter was struggling with what her future college decision would be and my phone was ringing from clients ready to list or buy.  Psalm 121:1 “ I lift my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from?” There was so much to do and plan for.  I was having a very hard time trying to balance it all.

On March 17th, I left my dad’s side to go with my daughter to ASU for a school visit. I have never seen her as happy as she was that day. The Lord’s peace was upon me. As we were leaving, I received a call that my father had died. Psalm 121:5 “the Lord watches over you...”

The year was quickly passing and the responsibilities were mounting. Moving two sets of parents and a child in one month seemed impossible. By the fall, all were settled and all was well.  At the end of the year I reflected back and hold to the assurance of Psalm 121:7 “the Lord will keep you from all harm-he will watch over your life;”.

In reading about this Psalm, the Israelites were in exile. They looked toward the hills and didn’t know how they would pass over. There are three themes that are presented. 1. The look of longing. 2. The question of weakness. 3. The assurance of faith. As in my year, there were so many times that I didn’t know how I would get through, but God proved himself faithful in all things. Psalm 121:8 “ the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”  Thanks be to God!!

Written by Carol Schenck