Bread for the Journey

 

 I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

I remember learning and memorizing this verse in my early teens, many years ago...lots has happened in between, and all I can say is that this promise is alive and we must stand strong and remain steadfast to God's word.

Our family  has just finished celebrating a 100th birthday.  During this week I have been able to take the time to read memoirs and  reflect about what our father and grandfather has been able to contribute both to his church and his community.   When I think back to the diversity and challenges that he endured during the war time, he remained steadfast to his belief.  During the 100th celebration he was asked a question, "What is your favorite motto?" 
And he answered 'Gott kann' meaning 'God can.'  Two very simple words, short and to the point.

We are faced with  challenges daily...in the work world, in the family, in our belief/value system, our government system.  Times have changed dramatically over the past 100 years.
I remember way back...when I was a young mom, I felt overwhelmed at times with three little tots running around.  It was then that an older lady reached out and said to me, "Little children, little problems, big children, big problems."  Little did I know what that meant. Now I am older just like the lady who reached out to me and can identify with her words.
During the weekend, we listened to stories from young and old.  It's not always easy to stand and listen to  younger nieces or nephews sharing their crisis in there lives.  What do we do when we discover drugs in the home, a child being hospitalized, a child has been arrested, a child chooses different values, depression sets in, broken relationships, driving under the influence of alcohol and the list goes on.

 As they shared their stories, we all started using Papa's / Opa's motto:  God Can!  As the families left,  we smiled and waved and did not say good bye, but rather, "GOD CAN!" These words have been etched in our hearts forever. Two simple short words!
Let's continue to envision life from God's perspective, not our own and focus on what we know we need to do, keep our priorities on track, fill that empty void with God's word and continue to trust in God as our source of power.

I am so encouraged to know that the same faith that our father, our grandfather, our great grandfather has handed down to future generations still holds strong for us today, and I hope that whatever you are experiencing, wherever you are, that you too can echo the same words.  "GOD CAN!"