Always remember . . .

During a recent winter, I learned that a high school classmate had sufferd a serious stroke. Although I had not seen him since graduation, positive memories propelled me to make a post on his Caring Bridge website. As I pondered, searching for words of hope and encouragement, this memory came to mind.

Bradley’s Store, the tiny building across from Senior High, was crowded with summer school students. In line in front of me, you paid for your soda and snack, and immediately exited with your food still on the counter. Mrs. Bradley called you back. Any embarrassment was quickly covered by your full confidence and magnificent grin as you exclaimed: “God almighty!” Mrs. Bradley immediately responded, in a voice with a wonderful mix of firmness and lovingkindness: “Always remember that He is all mighty.” Her brief declaration was strong and powerful; easier to remember than countless sermons. Those seven words have returned to my thinking numerous times in the ensuing years to encourage me during perplexing moments of doubt and crisis. They return this day, in light of your current situation which remains on my mind and in my heart. I pray and trust that you will indeed know the MIGHT of God in this season. I am encouraged to read that you are putting your trust in Him. May He be your rock, stronghold and refuge. I join many voices here full of hope that goodness will surround you. May you know the steadfast love of God as you heal and make progress.

Through the ensuing summer, my classmate exercised faith and great determination to make great progress in mobility. Reading of the results was encouraging; learning in the fall of a second stroke followed by his death was burdensome. Yet I did trust that he did experience the might of God in his circumstances.