For our “Held and Beloved” online study friends, it is a joy to share is a little more of my personal story from chapter nine.

We had hoped that my husband would have a healthy break between jobs to truly rest and recover from such a long, hard string of years. But it was not to be. He had one day! One day to step away from the demands of a position he was still working hard to finish with honor and integrity, before stepping bravely into a new opportunity. We chose to make it the best of all “playing hookie” kind of days!

After a morning of wandering the quiet paths and interesting animal exhibits at the Palm Beach Zoo, we enjoyed a celebratory lunch at Cheesecake Factory, then a beautiful drive south along coastal A1A to my favorite cove at Ocean Inlet in Boynton Beach. I was surprised to realize I had never before shared that treasured spot with him.

On that steely grey February day, the beach was a solitary place. It was a precious gift to breathe in peace and exhale gratefulness to the One who had walked us through the storm and set our feet on solid ground. Lingering in our own warm embrace, we sensed the Father’s arms around us, both of us held and beloved by Him!

A few days later, my birthday unfolded with one special surprise after another, all reminding me of the LORD’s extravagant love for me. My husband had been away, traveling for his new job, but walked through the door that evening with the biggest, most beautiful bouquet of flowers I had ever seen! It was stunning. I was so grateful all over again that we could rejoice in the joy of that day … together.

It always amazes me to see how the Savior uses moments big and small to touch and woo our hearts. His love for us is immense. His care for us is tender. He is our safe place, our Rock, our eternal source of hope, and our most treasured embrace.

The LORD is my strength and shield, I trust in Him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. The LORD gives His people strength. He is a safe fortress for His anointed. The LORD blesses His people with peace.

Psalm 28:7-8, Psalm 29:11

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