I have this book that Sean’s grandfather gave me. It’s from 1930. Well-loved, pages creased, spine weak. And it is one of my favorite books.

It’s called Songs for Courage. Written by a woman living through some very dark days, it is dedicated to “those who are walking, for a while, through the dark.”

I took it to Africa with me, and have carried it and flipped through it many times when I approach a day or a task that I don't want to face. It’s a short book. Only 30 pages or so. But it often has something meaningful to remind me of.

This morning was no different. It caught my eye as I was walking out the door, and I grabbed it. Looking for some courage for the task ahead, I came upon this prayer.

I don’t know, anymore, where each day is leading. If I’m honest, I never did. And I will not pretend there is ease in the steady journey forward. Especially since the crowd I used to journey with now often feels like the current against which I move.

“I only know that I may go

Unquestioningly with Thee,

Remembering that what Thou wilt

Is best for me.”

Each new day, each new task, each new experience brings with it a chance to grow. And swimming against the current is not pleasant, but the longer I do it, the stronger I am.

I’m preaching today. And the pulpit is not where I choose to be. But I go where I’m told. And I go believing that God will be there first, will speak through me, and will do a much greater work far longer afterward than I will even be alive. There are nerves, and old tapes playing that I have to record over… but overall, there is peace.

And when I am still… when I stop to listen… I hear the far of voices from the cloud cheering me on. It’s only a whisper. Today, it is enough.

I’m cheering for you today. Whatever it holds, I believe in you. And if you’re also in a place that feels a bit unsteady, wondering what the long hours may hold…

Be still for a moment.

Place your hand on your heart.

Lower your eyebrows.

Drop your tongue from the roof of your mouth.

Relax your shoulders.

Take a deep breath.

And know you are loved.