Uncertainty

It seems like 2012 has been burdened with uncertainty for many of my friends. Uncertainty about what the future holds and how they will be able to handle it.

First, friends of ours have been dealing with their 23-month old's brain injury.  This little one was involved in a violent incident.  Her recovery is amazing thus far. She was brought home just this past Friday, but will still be undergoing extensive outpatient speech, physical, and occupational therapy.  Her parents are facing uncertainty about her future because it's still not clear how extensive her injuries may be. Their faith is amazing and they are so very strong.  They (and we!) continue to rejoice in her recovery as she progresses step by step.

Second, another friend just found out she has colon cancer. As I type this, she is in surgery. She has two little ones, 3 1/2 and 1 1/2.  She started blogging about her unexpected journey and her faith is strong.  She is relying on our great Physician as she prays for healing and strength.

Third, another friend is facing possible single parenting in the near future as her husband faces several assault and attempted murder charges on another.  Most likely he'll go to jail.  We've known this couple for several years and I'm still in shock and don't know quite how to process this information. All of it. There is so much to the backstory that I can't even fathom what the entire (immediate and extended) family is going through.  I'm sure their family doesn't either. This woman and her family are facing uncertainty.

Fourth, my neighbor just told me today that one of her daughters (4 yrs. old) may lose hearing in both ears.  It could happen in a year it could take several years. She is facing uncertainty.

I, too, am facing uncertainty. But mine is temporary and seems so petty compared to the ones my friends' are facing. Me? I'm wondering how I will have the grace and patience to temporarily single-parent when Hubby leaves next week for his big project. I just found out today that he is leaving a day earlier than expected.

As I contemplate all of this uncertainty that seems to surround my friends I go back to this verse:

"Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning,
for I am trusting you.
Show me where to walk 
for I give myself to you" (Psalm 143:8)

And I just found this one and I'll share it with my friends who are facing uncertainty:

"We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need.  May you be filled with joy."  (Colossians 1:11)

For those of you facing uncertainty: May you be filled with God's grace. May you find strength in His unfailing love. Peace.