Keep Going Be Still

Keep Going ... Be Still

4 Words to summarize 2020 and lead us to intentional living in 2021. Let's start with what led to these four words. I was at the hospital for complications with my feeding tube. As I left the treatment area I had time for a quick stop at the hospital's Starbucks before heading up a floor to settle in for 7 hours of infusions. After getting settled into my hospital bed and getting out some reading materials from my bag, I placed my drink on the table and noticed that the coffee barista had written a note on my drink: Keep Going. The words captured my thoughts. What did that Barista see? Was this long year etched in the lines of my face; could she see a tired soul? How could she know that I needed those two words? I glanced past the cup and saw the words on the magazine I had brought with me: Be Still. Those words captured my thoughts too. I was drawn to the seemingly obvious juxtaposition of the two sets of words. Keep Going ... Be Still. Seems like the ultimate paradox but as I sat there pondering these four words, I realized they had an underlying commonality. These words require intentional living. Neither just occur in our lives; they are the result of purposeful decisions. More pondering ...

When difficulties enter our lives do we see them as interruptions or invitations? It seems these words are an invitation to live with purpose. This year has had its share of interruptions. Steve has had exceptional challenges while being on the front lines of the pandemic. He has also been overseeing the building of a new fire station, passing a levy restoration measure on the November ballot, acquiring new fire apparatus, and generally serving the community with a full schedule. He is not one to say much about himself but I will say he has done really well maneuvering an unprecedented year in the fire service. He demonstrates intentional living and consistently takes time to care for himself

spiritually and physically and he is always there for me throughout my medical journey. He embodies the call to Keep Going and Be Still. While trying to stay safe from COVID-19 in 2020, I have had 7 surgeries and 10 extra hospitalizations. As I reflected on both Steve's and my year I realized that these interruptions have actually been invitations to us; invitations to trust God, the God of all comfort. Invitations to refine us and grow our faith; invitations to press in and learn in these times of suffering. They have been invitations to Keep Going and invitations to Be Still.

This year of calm moments and many interrupted ones has taught me to trust God, to thank God, to rejoice in a God that can make me understand the great mystery of being able to Keep Going and Be Still. It's in this combination that we learn to live life with intention - never wasting a single day of any season in which we find ourselves. I reflect on stories of the Old Testament and the struggle of the Israelites to reach their promised land. In a difficult season in the wilderness, God had these words for them:

"Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today ...The Lord will fight for you; you need only to Be Still." We can Be Still in unsettled times.

Never are we promised a comfortable, easy, pain free life. We are promised God will be with us through these times; there is the promise that we will be restored and strengthened.

1 Peter 5 says: "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." We can Keep Going.

2020 has brought a lot of affliction to so many people, a lot of unsettled times, and seasons of pain. As we enter into 2021, let us not forget the promises and purposes found in God. "He comforts us in all our affliction, SO THAT we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:4

As we look into 2021, it's in these promises that we can Keep Going and Be Still at the same time. We wish you a rejuvenated, intentional, and blessed New Year no matter the season in which you find yourself.

By His Grace Alone,

Lee and Steve

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Comments

Cherie Leyva:

Lee, Every time you post, it reminds me of how lucky I am to appreciate and enjoy every day that God grace's me. Lord knows I need the reminders to stop and appreciate what we have and all the beautiful people in our lives. Thank you for being you and sharing your beautiful wisdom with us. I still remember our talks in the hospital and how much they mean to me. Thank you! Cherie

Karren Logan:

Lee and Steve...You both are prime examples of, Keep going-Be still. Your faith, strengthens my faith. Just when I am feeling a little down, I get a post from you. You are precious gifts from Jesus. Yes, through him you teach the gospel...Keep Going....Be Still. I love you both and God Bless you, in the New Year.

sandra henry:

Steve and Lee, thank you for the beautiful lesson. God is always fighting for us. Love you guys!

James Broman:

Amen... and Amen! Blessings and Peace... "not as the world giveth!" John 14:27

Steve Braden:

Happy New Year to you and Steve. We pray 2021 brings you a blessed/healthy year. We have enjoyed keeping up with Lacey Fire Department. Steve has done an outstanding job. Thank you for sharing. I needed these words. Love you guys

Kelly Anderson:

Thank you for sharing your wisdom and insights as God continues to use you thru these great challenges. I am praying for you both and appreciate your encouragement. Happy New Year dear friend and may God bless your body and soul with rest and peace in 2021!

Kurt Kroschel:

Thanks Lee - Those four words "keep going...be still" resonate so completely with me. We are called to simultaneously rest in him, and walk in-step with him. I cannot think of one person who would not benefit from hearing those 4 words together in reference to our lives in Christ. Blessings to you and Steve..keep going and be still.

Teresa J Brooks:

Thank you Lee for sharing your thoughts and wisdom and for being positive inspite of your situation. Your comments came at a really low point for me and your words are comforting and uplifting. I always keep you and Steve in my prayers. Love you! Teresa