The Perfect Storm and the Hope for Calm

Last year at this time we were aware that the waters were moving. We'd been living out God's call, Linda teaching Kindergarten in Detroit and me pursuing writing and speaking, but we sensed that a tide change was in the works. Grace Christian Fellowship was looking for a pastor and we were looking for what God had next. God placed our little boat on a collision course for the island of Grace, and we landed safe and sound, coming aground exactly where he planned.

During that time, as we sailed the sea of life, everything fell into place giving us the confidence we needed to raise the sails and follow the wind. Watching God work it all out provided assurance and peace and exhilaration. (All you Baby Boomers, cue Christopher Cross' Sailing . . . )

It's not far back to sanity

At least it's not for me

And when the wind is right you can sail away

And find serenity

The canvas can do miracles

Just you wait and see

Believe me

It was a miracle, more because of all the little miracles that piled up into a wave and washed us to Grace.

However, we didn't know it at the time, but a perfect storm was forming that would impact the big move. Recession, mortgage crisis, Michigan economy, (add your favorite depressive here), and our house in Royal Oak, MI was at the center of the confluence.

Even though we are sure that God provided our new home, and we are sure that this is where he wants us, our former house continues to languish in a flooded market. We don't have answers for the obvious question: why? If everything else worked out in amazing ways, why not this part of the story?

We don't know the answer, but I can tell you that it's another opportunity for his grace. He knows what's up, and he is the one who calms the storms, and we can trust him.

PS -- if you're looking for a great home, check it out here: http://www.realtor.com/realestate/royal+oak-mi-48073-1100403006/