The starting line

As we headed out of the stadium toward the 5k starting line, Naomi took my hand. Not usually one for clinging, she held tight even though the massive, shifting crowd seemed determined to separate us.

I remember the feel of her small hand gripping mine firmly. It said, "I'm scared and nervous, but I trust you. I'm safe with you." I held firmly also, wanting to send strength, courage and presence to her. Two-way, unspoken communication. We are together, and you are safe with me as you take each step toward the start of your big, new experience.

I'm at the starting line of a new job. Tomorrow I will take a different freeway exit and park in a new lot and walk into a new set of people and a big, new experience. Like Naomi, I'm feeling nervous as I don't know the route for the race or what will happen along the way. Now I am the small child taking God's hand. He has the course map and asks me to take one step, then another, having faith that he will bring me safely through. He will not let go.

Dt 2: 7 The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.