Balloon Ride

In the last blog I highlighted the power of just being present for our loved ones in crises. Today I will add another action to the list. I call it a balloon ride.

One morning I woke up extra early and tiptoed out of the bedroom desperately trying not to wake Dale. The weight of the disease and all that came with it was bearing down on me. I felt like I was living the lyrics of the song “Worn”…..”I’m worn and my prayers are wearing thin. I’m worn even before the day begins. I’m worn and I’ve lost my will will to fight…”

I slowly started getting ready for the day. Some time passed when it occurred to me that I was feeling much better. I felt stronger and the weight that I was carrying seemed to be lighter. My improved mood was curious since I hadn’t yet had my devotions and prayer time. I hadn’t even had my coffee yet for goodness sake. So why was I feeling better?

Then I felt the Lord impress this upon my heart, “your friends and family are now waking up and praying for you. You are feeling the affects of their prayers.” At that moment I saw a picture of a hot air balloon. It starts out as just a massive pile of canvass on the ground. As the hot air is added, it fills the balloon to the point that it eventually lifts off and soars to the sky.

That is a picture of what our prayers do for each other. The prayers fill our spirit and lift us up. They strengthen us to rise above the cares and burdens of the day. I am so grateful for the many prayers that strengthened us in that season. I now pray for others with a picture in my mind of a balloon ride.