I Choose Prayer (February 23, 2013)

Remember in the Sound of Music when Maria says, “Oh, help,” when she first beholds the von Trapp estate in all its glory? That’s how I feel about my days, hours, minutes sometimes. I love Ethnic Man, the spawns, our home, and all of the blessings associated; it’s an abundantly beautiful life! But the responsibilities associated with all the relationship therein…”Oh, help.”

The book title escapes me, but while on the elliptical the other day, I read a great passage. Or maybe this was my friend encouraging me with her devotion reading that day. I don’t know. I just know what I heard and it blessed my socks off. It was a scripture paraphrased as a suggestion from the Lord saying, “Talk to me often and call on me throughout the day when you need help. This will keep you humble and ever-aware of my presence.”

So in the discouraged moments when I don’t feel like I’ve grown spiritually one iota since the 90s, or in the moments when I don’t think I can teach algebra, fractions, passive/active voice, solar system basics, and colors all at one time (and yes, I’ve had to do just that all in one hour), in the moments when I’m driving someone to an activity and don’t remember where, those are the moments I find myself saying, “Oh, dear Lord, help!”

I’ve done it for years. And for years I have not doubted the presence of God in my life. So YES, I will call on him. I have and I will and I am so grateful that he hears me. So grateful that he responds. So humbled that he cares about my little stuff.

Feeling overwhelmed these days? He’ll help you, too.