Holding Fast and Pressing On in California

     It has been many months since the last time I was able to post.  The only way I can describe the last few months is a roller coaster ride.  There have been many ups and many downs,  many turns in the track that were unexpected and even those that were expected were much sharper than anticipated.  Have you ever experienced that feeling of being completely at a loss and confused on which way is up when you get off the ride at the amusement park.  That feeling is what I have here in California; now that the anticipation, ups, downs and turns have stopped I am standing here looking around not sure which direction to go or what "ride" to get on next.
    I am excited and apprehensive at the same time.  I know that is how my kids are when we visit a new amusement park.  They are excited to be there and yet a bit apprehensive about the rides and debate whether they want to get on this one or that one.    They then make a decision, jump in and have a great time.  I am having to work really hard to make those decisions and jump in! 
     In my apprehension and at times confusion the thing that keeps running through my mind is, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever." Heb 13:8.  I first memorized that scripture when I was in Kindergarten.  It was the verse that went with the letter J in my first BMA (Bible Memorization Association) book.  It is simple and yet has an even deeper meaning for me today. Christ is the same here in California as He was 6 months ago in Maine and he will be the same in 4 years where ever we happen to be.
    As I look around at my surroundings here in California it is so much different than Maine.  The contrast is so big!  I think about God who spoke both of these places into being and how varied His imagination was.  I have seen so many facets of God's character in my life; and as I look at the desert with the cactus and Joshua Trees and bare mountains in a place with lots of heat I wonder what new attributes of Himself He wants me to experience.
   So although I am a bit disoriented and uncomfortable I am going to press on toward that feeling of excitement that God is going to show me great things.

Holding Fast and Pressing On,
Teresa

Driving into Ridgecrest, CA

Joshua Tree