Busy, busy busy getting ready for the trip. One of the things on my to-do list was to submit an essay I’ve been working on for a contest. This isn’t because I’m trying to win. Actually I’ve labored with this essay because it was difficult. In fact, it’s not even due yet. In addition, it has to be submitted to the very place we will be touring in a matter of days. Since it was due the day we return, and I wanted vacation to be vacation, today had to be my personal submission date.

When the contest arrived in my e-mail a few weeks ago, it smote my heart. It was about the very thing with which I was currently struggling. I tried to delete it. I tried to ignore it. I tried to push on. However the Spirit kept gently tugging my heartstrings, encouraging me to persevere. I had to dig deep. I had to pray. I had to wait on God and read His Word. He gave me glimmers of ideas here and there over the last few weeks. I’ve pondered and wrestled as I questioned what I truly believe about this. I do not expect to win this contest. I know there are far better writers than I am. However how can I ignore God? In the meantime, I learned something about struggle and waiting on God and hearing His voice. The work He has done in my heart over these last few weeks are reward enough. Praise Him!