...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
When I worked in an elementary school library, I
met a lot of children. Fortunately for me, my path has crossed with many of
them over the years. I enjoy learning who they've become as adults. I've even
had a few of them work for me at the college library. Today my story is about
one little girl. As clear as day, I still see her sweet face peeking at me over
my desk as she waited to check out a book. She had a beautiful smile with a
hint of shyness. My husband delivered bottled water to her family, and he'd told
me a little bit about them. "Good people," he said.
Hannah attended our school for a while, but
eventually moved to a different district. But the Lord had plans for our paths
to cross. We met up again at church, where I got to know her family. Though our
journeys have taken us different directions again, I still keep in touch with
her folks. The other day, her dad posted Hannah's photo on Facebook. In the
picture, she's wearing glasses, her hair is pulled back, her cap pulled down
and she's carrying a huge pack. But under it all is the sweet, shy girl I
remember. And that sweet girl is all grown up and going through basic training as
she prepares to serve her country. I'm thankful we have people like Hannah, who
love God and the USA. God has blessed me just by knowing her.
This Memorial Day, I say a prayer of thanks for the
men and women who gave their all for our freedom. I also ask you to pray with me for
those who are fighting the fight. I pray the words of Isaiah and ask that
"They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow
weary, they will walk and not be faint."