The Center

DNA contains the biological map creating each individual, setting one apart from another.  All the information remains tightly bound in the tiny portion of a cell called the nucleus.  The tightly bound package is called a chromosome.  Together, chromosomes provide the makeup which enables a species to develop, survive and reproduce (MUCH LATER IN LIFE). 

I believe something went haywire when all the chromosomes began gathering in each cell, mapping out my makeup.  A dominant gene rampaged and overtook each nucleus.  Taking each chromosome hostage, this gene began instilling irrational thinking, construing the fight or flight mechanism and eventually shutting off the fight switch.  Remaining in flight in any and every situation from the get go dug a hole deeper and deeper to hide out.

The gene has a name: FEAR!  Since I can remember, fear wedged its way into each chapter of life.  A few situations topping the list: darkness, spiders and tornadoes.  The dark blinds, allowing ‘things’ or ‘people’ to sneak up without invitation.  Spiders are just hideous little creatures serving no purpose as far as I am concerned.  And, tornadoes rampage the Earth in unpredictable patterns. 

Let’s talk about tornadoes.  These storms create legitimately real fear among many.  I remember mom gathering us in the hallway bathroom as the sirens blared and dad chose to watch the storm.  Dad remained adventurous, while I held onto a pillow for dear life (like a soft pillow would really blunt the impact of the ceiling).  Mom also supplied a Bible as we curled in the bathtub and near the toilet.  Seeing the Bible actually increased my fear as a child due to the fact that prayers usually meant something bad was about to happen.  I remember prayers only lifted to plead for safety in tough/dangerous situations. 

The sirens blaring indicated the need to seek shelter.  Forewarning allowed preparation for impending storms.  The plan included finding the center most portion of your home where no windows exist or the basement located underground and wait the storm out.  Mom created a bag prepared with food/water/necessities in case we ever had to remain in our safe haven for extended periods of time.  We were ready!

Are you ready?  Not for the storms occurring in nature, but the storms occurring spiritually.  These storms outweigh any that Mother Nature can construe.  You know the storms: bad report from the doctor, words spoken in anger, divorce, death of loved ones, overwhelming stress, addiction, etc.  In this world we will have storms BUT, take heart, God calms the worst of them. . .

God gathers all tools required for survival.  He stands waiting, arms open wide.  His angel armies provide a protective barrier from fiery darts.  His Word clears away the storm, keeping focus on purpose and meaning. 

Sometimes in life, storms come full force without warning.  No siren blares.  No time exists to run for shelter.  We must be ready at all times.  Preparation is key. 

What does the center of your ‘home’ look like?  Is there still a vacancy deep down, leaving you helpless in the storm?  Build your toolbox today!  Fill the vacancy with God.  Find comfort in Him, peace in His Word and guidance through the Holy Spirit.  No storm can withstand His power.  Pray without ceasing!  Don’t wait until the storm is full force to seek God through prayer.  Pray daily harder than the devil can work. 

With Love     

Sheree Craig    Live life. . .One Day at a Time