Nothing new

What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.
Ecclesiastes 1:9

Alternating between the illusions of both time standing still and speeding by, I'm learning to dance without really hearing the music. I'm learning to follow His lead, watch for His signal, wait for His voice.

There is nothing new to report. My silence comes from the quiet place where I find refuge under His protective wings. I'm celebrating this season, the hills and valleys, with my friends and family. Some days are brimming with activity. Others insist upon rest.

And yet He whispers my name, beckons...

I had another doctor appointment yesterday that was just part of a regular checkup. "You look great!", says my doctor. "If I didn't have your chart in front of me, I'd never guess you have cancer." Yes. If it wasn't for the pain I'm constantly pushing back, I would think the same thing. My face practices hiding the wincing like a pro. Maybe I should take up acting. I feel like a liar. I'm sorry...

I go in for more lab work tomorrow. My poor vein is building up scar tissue from using the same arm over and over again.  I will see my oncologist again in January. Right now, things look good on paper. We're praying that true healing is happening.

Sometimes an idea forms and I don't know what to do with it, so I pray and consider it from all angles. Then a friend comes along and basically suggests the very same thing, confirming it was worth my time to ponder. When a second friend gives encouragement that echoes that affirmation, it's clearly time for action.

Last month, a friend asked if she could read scripture and pray with me. Not long after, another friend asked if I have prayer warriors committed to lifting me up daily. I know that I do and I am thankful for that. Then she encouraged me to meet regularly with them. Friends, I crave this fellowship with other women, with like-minded believers, but it's been missing in my life for years and now He's calling me out.

Lord, teach me to be like Abraham, Samuel, and Jacob..."Here I am!" And set my feet unto action.

Beginning in January, I will be hosting an informal time of scripture reading and prayer. A weekly "come as you are" hour or so, even if that means pajamas and bedhead. That will likely be me. If you would be interested in joining me, please let me know. It will be at 10 am but I'm not sure which day of the week yet. I'll see who's interested first and when works for most.

Pictured: I finally gave in and applied for a disabled person parking permit. I'm not sure why I waited so long but I'm thankful I have it now.