Moving On


I'm not sure who I'm writing this for today - but I feel it pressed hard on my heart - so here you go.  If this is a post you needed - will you let me know?

A few years ago my parents moved from their beautiful condo in the north part of Kalamazoo to a retirement home.  When they first told me their plans - I was NOT happy.  Their condo was wonderful.  It had 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a fully finished basement that even had a fireplace, an open concept kitchen/living/dining area, a screened porch, and a deck that overlooked the woods.  They were steps away from the Kal-Haven biking/walking trail and within minutes of lots of shops and restaurants.

The new place looked out over a big metal sub station...😕

HOWEVER, after spending my first weekend with them at their new home, I realized the move was precisely what they needed.  Their apartment had a big "sky view".  The complex had a nice restaurant and bar and lots of activities.  And they were surrounded by people they could interact with WITHOUT having to leave their building.

Mom enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails/hors d'oeuvres at friends' houses, and Dad loved spending time playing bridge and poker - then capping it off with a Baileys at the bar.

Within a few weeks of moving there, they had loads of friends and the place felt more like a college dorm ... without the homework!  

A year after they moved there, when Dad passed away, the move proved to be EXACTLY what my mom had needed.  In the retirement home she was surrounded by folks who knew and loved both her and Dad.  It was a place filled with people who could offer an ear, a shoulder, or a hug.

Moves are scary.  And difficult.  But often a move is needed in order for God to get you where he wants you to be.

I think about examples in the Bible: The Israelites moving out of Egypt, Joseph moving (not by his own choice) out of his father's home into the service of Potiphar, Samuel moving to live with Eli, David moving to play the harp for Saul, Esther moving to the palace....

Over and over again God uses these moves to bring people closer to Him.

Are you facing a move?  Maybe instead of a physical move it's one of circumstance - perhaps the move is in your career, a relationship, or something else.  Do not fear.  God can use it!

Exodus 33:14 - "And he said, 'My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest."

Deuteronomy 31:8 - "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you.  He will not fail you or forsake you.  Do not fear or be dismayed."

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