Jehovah Jirah, My Provider

Yesterday our pastor was preaching about God’s provision, referencing scriptures such as Genesis 45:21, when Joseph gave his brothers provision for their journey as they returned to Canaan to rescue their father’s house in the time of famine. Not only did he send resources to take back to their father, he also took care of their travel expenses and needs. The sermon emphasis was that not only will we have Heaven as our reward, but God also takes care of us in this life.

Last week one of our precious daughters, Amy, and two of our sweet grandchildren, Corrin and Rachel, flew out to visit us from Georgia. Our time together would be all too short, so I put a lot of planning into the days they would be here, knowing the kids, especially, would not be content to sit around the house and visit.

The first day, we went on a lovely walking tour through Cann Gardens to enjoy the beautiful fall flowers and scenic grounds. After a burger/milkshake lunch at Happy Days, which Corrin had requested, we took the kids to a private showing of A Dolphin’s Tale (since the local schools were not on Fall break, we were the only ones at the matinee).

I had a special dinner planned, and even though I had forgotten a few things, my family helped gather everything from goat cheese to dried cranberries in a dash to the supermarket. We would have salmon in puffed pastry, and cheese, cranberry and walnut salad with lemon/maple vinaigrette. I had just set the table with my prettiest dishes and was taking the entrée from the oven, when the electricity in the dining room went out. We could figure it out later, but right now, dinner was served and the room was dark!

I had two candlesticks on the table flanking a seasonal arrangement, but that wouldn’t make enough light. (The salmon rested on a yellow rice base and was topped with spinach, making a lovely contrast of colors when cut through, which couldn’t be appreciated in half-light.) Then I remembered a veritable inferno of grouped pillar candles on the fireplace mantel. I had bought them at Ikea in Houston earlier this year, and they had never been used. Our table was lit up brilliantly!

Thank you, Lord, for working everything out! He knew there would be a time when I needed those candles! I saw His hand in the details throughout their visit, from Amy’s appreciative comments about the smooth sheets and pretty bed covering, their enjoyment of our porch and their compliments on the meals, to their awe of the prairie dogs and eagles in the country. The best part was their safe arrival and safe return home. God had given them (and us) provision for their journey.