Blog.

Perhaps you are praying for one you love today. Not too long ago I was praying for a loved one, and I pulled out my paintbrushes and oil paints to lift this loved one before God. This dear one, like so many, had navigated a difficult and painful season.

Finally, I come to the unremarkable, weather-worn, wooden sign. It reads "Respite Retreat," marking a path branching off the main trail and leading into the woods. With low expectations, I follow it.

I look up and see him standing on a rocky ledge where the path abruptly moves upward. I walk over to the steep incline where Jesus looks down from the ledge and extends his hand to grasp mine.  Leaning on my walking stick with one hand, I reach for Jesus with the other. With a firm grip he effortlessly lifts me up and over the boulders to the place he stands. I feel his calloused hand holding mine–he doesn’t let go.