Living on a Prayer...

By Anne Womack

…At least that’s how I feel. A prayer of gratitude and of joy. As I sit down to reflect on the past four months in my life; months of change and transition, of growth and refinement, I desire so badly to pinpoint some specific truth or insight that has shaped this time-some exact lesson that I have learned. And, I suppose, I could do that if I really tried. But rather than do that, I think I have to focus on the simple (or maybe not so simple) fact that the Lord is faithful and is constantly carrying out His redemptive work in my life.
I can’t help but see it. I see it in seminary class; in having deep theological questions answered and having new ones arise. I see it in Bible study, in the fact that though many times I have not run after Him, He has pursued me and has met me in places that I never would have imagined. I see it in good conversations, in the affirmation from others of the work of the Holy Spirit in and through my life when I feel ill-equipped and unproductive.
And mostly, I see it in relationships. I see it in a host-family who is not afraid to love me—to give selflessly and care not just for my needs, but also for my character. I see it in a director who cares limitlessly for us, not just as “Fellows,” but as humans-as travelers down this road together. I see it in old friends taking new roles and new shapes. I see it in new friends, friends that from the beginning have taken a risk in loving me--not knowing what they would receive in return. And as those new friendships have grown I have seen the Lord’s faithfulness in the deepening of those friendships; the fear of new relationships being replaced by the joy of love and life in community.
So in light of these relationships and this community, and in light of the Lord’s faithfulness to this midway point, I can’t help but offer the words of the great 80’s poet, Bon Jovi, to those joining me this year on our journey:

“Oh, we’re halfway there.

Oh, livin on a prayer.

Take my hand and we’ll make it, I swear.

Oh, livin on a prayer.”