The Confirmation
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15)
We were on our way to Barcelona, Spain and the woman next to me was on the phone. She was petite with striking red hair and I had a feeling, by her conversation, she had an interesting story. I prayed if I was supposed to talk to her, God would provide an opening. I did not want to miss a divine appointment.
We had the opportunity to chat when the airline provided dinner. I found out she was a professional dancer and singer, and was getting ready to perform for six months on a major cruise line. When not traveling, she taught dance in New York City. Many successful Broadway dancers have probably gone through her classes. What an exciting career!
I continued to wonder if I was supposed to share anything about my faith with her. Then God opened the door. When she asked me what I did, I explained that I was an author and speaker, and showed her our new book, If I Only Had…Wrapping Yourself in God’s Truth During Storms of Insecurity. She thumbed through it and immediately landed on the chapter If I Only Had…a Child. It seemed to stop her in her tracks, and after a long pause, she began to share her story.
She was married, but had opted to not have children early on because of her dancing career. Now in her 40’s, she and her husband tried to conceive but her most recent attempt ended in miscarriage. She was disappointed and heartbroken, and being around her friends with babies made it even more difficult. The job on the cruise line was a way to heal and do some soul searching. I tried to console her, and told her motherhood was not always about bearing physical children but that God had given her a venue to mother countless girls who walked through the doors of the dance studio. So many girls who have mothers still need mothers. I understand that personally and am grateful for all the “other mothers” God brought me over the years.
I also knew at that moment I needed to give her the book. It was the only one I brought on the plane. I thought I brought it in my carry on bag to work on an article, but it wasn’t about the article. The book was truly meant for her. She seemed grateful for the gift and promised to read it. I knew she meant it because she thanked me again at the end of the fight. I hope it will be an integral part of her healing.
This experience was another confirmation for the chapter If I Only Had…a Child. Initially, I did not want to write on that particular subject because I did not feel qualified, but through some holy pushing, Catherine and I put the chapter together, and the Lord confirmed its validity again on the flight to Barcelona.
While this divine meeting was a repeat message about a chapter in the book, I am praying it is confirmation about a chapter in the dancer’s life. She is seeking healing, and the Lord began the process the moment she boarded the plane. God loves all his children, and provides what we need during the darkest of times. (LBW)
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18