The Simple Things

Hi friends and family,

A little over three weeks ago I got a heartbreaking phone call, one of my close friends, Rae, and her mother died in a plane crash. I was in disbelief and confused why. Ever since then her mom’s saying has been ringing in my ears “ you are never guaranteed tomorrow. So love your family and those around you, share the love of Christ!” This made me think, “am I spending every moment to become closer to God, my family and bring light to this dark world. Or am I distracted by social media, trivial things, and worldly possessions?” Have I made the most out of my Unknown Time on the earth? These are the questions rolling through my mind for weeks on top of grieving Rae. She was like a little sister to me and I loved her so much. It is a hard thing to walk out on the Race. Due to Covid, I was not able to go to the funeral, thankfully I was able to call in for their celebration of life. I know I will see them again in eternity and we will have a huge dance party. 

Being on the race has created a bubble effect, some days the grief does not seem real, but then other days it hits you like a freight train. Not going to lie this has not been easy, I have had numerous days where my heart has felt broken. God has been so sweet through this process. He has given me space to rest in him as well as different things I take comfort in and that bring me joy. The first two weeks we were in Albania He gave me piano at our first location. I have been praying to have a piano since the start of my race because it is a way I can process my feelings and turn off my mind. Having that blessing I was able to play her favorite Disney songs and process her loss. Those two weeks we had a very restful schedule, where I could find rest in God and have time to grieve/cry. I feel like if I had been in a different location with a busy schedule I would have pushed down my feelings and that would not be good. Then this past week we moved locations and God gave me the blessing of borrowing a bike for the month while we are at this location. Back home my bike time was God time. It was a space where I could tune out the world and tune into God and have conversations, which brings me so much joy and comfort. So this morning I got on my bike and rode to church, bought my coffee, and started ministry. The small things in life bring so much Joy.  So why would we wait for the big things in life to bring happiness and joy when we can receive Joy from God in the little things. 

As I am going through this hard process and finding joy in the simple things here is a challenge for you; What are you doing with the little moments God has given you? 

With Love, 

Lydia Strickland