Rescued
Author: Timothy Austin (Turkey)
During our college days in Northern California, my friends and I decided to go for a swim in the turbulent waters of the Pacific Ocean. One place in particular was called ‘the bowl’. Rightly named, it’s a place where the waves slam into the rocky cliffs and create a whirlpool of surging, foaming seawater. The waters were especially unsettled that day. Four of us jumped in, but a few moments later only three emerged. I could not manage to grab hold of the rocks to pull myself out. With the water tugging me under, I was losing strength quickly and beginning to panic. Then I saw my friend reaching down from the rocks above me. Managing to take hold of his hand, I allowed him to pull me up to safety. As I sat on the shore catching my breath, I thanked God for sending help.
When we find ourselves in situations that threaten our physical, spiritual or emotional well-being, we can be tempted to despair. If we’re not careful, we can miss the help God is sending our way. A timely message, a scripture verse, someone to listen, the prayers of a friend—even the outstretched arm of a friend to pull us out of the water—are just a few of the ways God can come to our aid.
Prayer: Dear God, when we are tempted to lose heart, remind us to look to you and receive the help you so lovingly offer. Amen