I bought a new phone for my mom and spent some one-on-one time with her. Things feel like they’ve softened a bit, and it’s such a relief to remember that God is in control, not me. Life is so complex, and the human heart has a way of hiding its true feelings. It’s not my job to change anyone, that’s something only God can do. How fortunate we are that the Lord loves us all deeply and remains good and faithful no matter what.

Tonight, a very angry young woman joined our small group. She’s standing on the edge, seemingly ready to let her anger consume everything around her. Decades of repressed pain are spilling out, and my heart breaks listening to her speak about her struggles. So much of her pain seems tied to cultural pressures and rules bound by laws. She’s overwhelmed by her environment and the children she’s trying to teach.

Oh Lord, my heart aches for her, but I know my ability to help is limited. You see her pain more clearly than anyone, and only You can heal her wounded heart. I pray that she opens herself to Your love, that she finds hope and learns to love again. Protect her, guide her, and hold her under Your wing. In Your name, I pray. Amen.