Thriving in Turmoil

Yesterday I read in Streams in the Desert about the organisms responsible for the amazing coral reefs, which are found here in the Bahamas and notably in the South Pacific. The author said that sailors used to believe the organisms needed the reefs in order to thrive in the protected quiet waters on the shoreward side. But scientists have learned that they actually live and thrive on the ocean side, in the "highly oxygenated foam of the combative waves." Like almost everyone else, I have always preferred a protected and easy life, and I have certainly prayed for that for those I love. "Yet," Streams author says, "the lives of all the noblest and strongest people prove exactly the opposite and that the endurance of hardship is the making of the person."

I thank God for that truth. My sister's friends here have become our friends through our many visits, and we'll see three couples during our short stay. One dear guy learned on Friday that he has a mass in his lung, and he's hoping for an appointment at Cleveland Clinic in the next few days; the doctor thinks it's likely cancer. Another of the three men is experiencing heart distress and is scheduled for a stress test next week. And the third was diagnosed a few weeks ago with the early stages of Alzheimers. We love these people, and we're stunned and sad about their struggles. God loves them too. His plans for them are always good, and we're trusting him for their courage, peace, and healing.

Our flight yesterday was smooth, and the rest of our day was pleasant and restful. The ocean water here is still that incredible brilliant turquoise color. In a few minutes we'll go out for a walk before getting ready for church.

Blessings,
Carol