It was a little over a year ago that I was able to call Little Rock home. Last summer, I spent a lot of time running around the Big Dam Bridge. I specifically remember, despite my excitement of being in a new place and "starting over," I was feeling slightly apprehensive and a part of me was afraid. I specifically remember hearing this song (which I have heard many times) and the lyrics toward the end of the song stopped me in my tracks. I knew that everything would be okay.
Live Forever by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors
"Take courage when the road is long.
Don't ever forget, you are never alone."
As I ran across the bridge again recently I heard this song again and it took be right back to the moment I had with it last year. I couldn't help but think about the road I have been on in the past year. I cannot help but be grateful.
There have been ups and downs. Mistakes. Grace.
There has been loneliness. Fear. Joy. Peace.
And now, as I am preparing to end this chapter in Little Rock and preparing to begin a new one in Fayetteville, I am overwhelmed by much.
Saying goodbye to my Kindergarten class and coworkers I had grown close to. Saying goodbye to a career that I love and worked hard to achieve. Saying goodbye to a cute little apartment and a roommate that I love and adore. Saying goodbye to friendships that have grown over the past year. Saying goodbye to having "comfort" in many areas of my life.
In the midst of all of this chaos I have joy. I have an anchor. This anchor is Jesus.
At times, doubt and overwhelming thoughts have consumed my mind at times to such an extent that I cannot think clearly. Even in the midst of these moments, I know with all of my heart that I am exactly where he wants me to be. I will fight to follow God's will because I believe he has a purpose for my life that will exceed even my highest expectations and dreams.
You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11
He is for us and longs for us to be a part of his story. At times it is easy to feel small and insignificant. It is easy to feel as if our lives lack purpose. However, he meets us where we are to remind us otherwise.
Jesus met me where I was that day on the bridge. Hearing that song while running on the bridge touched my heart in a unique way and reminded me just how much he loves and cares for me. He cares deeply about every detail of our lives and longs for us to find meaning in our lives through him.
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. Hebrews 6:19-20
