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When Nathan was preparing for Basic Training, I offered to train with him. [Pause for laughter.]

It was a running/calisthenics program. Calisthenics, I love. Running, only if someone is chasing me. I love to walk and hike but prefer to leave running to those who experience the pleasure of God through it.

God revealed a couple of things as I gasped for air. He uses any and all means to teach us about Himself and ourselves. For that, I am truly grateful.

In many ways, this has felt like a long season. So many of the rhythms and routines of our lives have been disrupted, dismantled, or canceled. Milestones, celebrations, and times of mourning bear little resemblance to plans or dreams. Disease, unrest, sorrow, frustration, anger, confusion, exasperation, fear, numbness…have I hit on anything you can relate to yet? Our home is typically a revolving door for meetings, shared meals, neighbors and friends, game nights, and other…

It was the most difficult season of our married lives — big trial, uncertainty, no routine, and high stress. We had five children and had unloaded all the baby paraphernalia. We were tired, worried, confused, frustrated, and as stretched by and dependent on God as we ever had been.

So we thought.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9a

I know I’m weak. I feel it every day. That’s why I like this verse. God’s power is made perfect in weakness — my weakness. How thrilling to know that God’s plan for my weakness is to make His power perfect!

I think fewer of us expect kindness today. Many of us expect more of the opposite, actually. We expect to hear unkind words, bullying in our schools, and hatefulness on the news and social media.