Tarah
It seems the more open to joy and gratitude I am, the more I am caught off guard by the wonder of small moments in my life. Sitting around a table, chatting with my children about flavors and textures as we dunked another potato in the boiling broth, I’m struck with the majesty of this family—something crafted alone by God. I see hundreds of choices that led us here—not just adoption, but choosing connection over sleep, leaning into messy over peace. In this, I see God’s faithfulness and love.
SAY TO GOD: “HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME!”
I sat in amazement in the newly-renovated cross-cultural community center. Sharing meals and stories with women from all over the world. Noticing our shared leadership. How did I get so lucky to be amongst so many amazing women? And be grafted into a community that represents wholeness and redemptive influence. And to see a vision realized far beyond what I could have ever comprehended! I thought my hopes for this were for them. But the more I this journey, the more I realize that I was saved by this beloved community too.
SAY TO GOD: “MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE!”
I didn’t think I was the right fit for executive leadership. And yet I found myself starting as an executive director - the same day the “stay at home” order began in Michigan. Sitting in an empty space behind our bathroom. I wondered if I would be enough. Could I meet the needs of program members, operations, and have enough money to pay people? Although I was overwhelmed, I had a deep sense that God would give me enough resolve for the day ahead. Peace emerged from God’s presence and His promise not to leave.
SAY TO GOD: “GIVE US TODAY OUR DAILY BREAD!”
In the darkest of times I was found and held by the most loving God. And although I would have said I’ve known him my whole life, it wasn’t until those challenging days that I allowed my identity to be defined first by God’s love. We can wait and wait for the most opportune conditions for peace. When all is resolved. But God’s story shows us that in this world we will have trouble. But in it we will be met and seen by the Prince of Peace who can still the storms within us immediately.
”SAY TO GOD: “DELIVER US FROM EVIL!”