The Other End of the Line

I don't know what it is about this week but everything has been a bit off kilter and today was eventful in its own way. This morning started off a bit rough and hectic. I then waited eagerly for a call from my husband regarding G's doctor's appointment. She's had a nasty little cold the past couple of days and her coughing became really rough last night and it woke her up at 430a this morning. The doctor of course said it was nothing to be concerned about at this point and to ride it out. This is what I figured but with the way it sounded, I wanted to be certain nothing was settling in her chest. She's remained happy all day. I just can't get enough of this little girl!

While I was happy to get the call reporting a fairly good bill of health, the next call was not one I was expecting. C was on his way home from the doctor with G and ended up in an accident. A couple of guys in a construction truck came over into his lane, hitting the front of our car. They continued to drive on without so much as stopping to check on my family. C was able to get some vital information in order to contact the police department and file a report. I am beyond grateful to God for their safety. I can't imagine what a mess I would be if they had been hurt. So now, at this point, we've got the report filed, our insurance is doing their thing, and our car will be out of commission for a while. It's always something...and yet God's goodness remains through it all.

After grilling in the rain, I got G ready for bath and bed. She is such a little snuggle bunny. I finally made my way into the kitchen to enjoy some dinner. I eventually got a call from my hubby saying he had an emergency call that he had to run with the fire department. It doesn't look like I'll be seeing him today after all.

I got to thinking about how a single phone call can change the course of a day in an instant. With today being the 12th year since the 9/11 attacks, I can't help but think about the phone calls made that day and the life altering conversations that took place. I think of the husbands calling their wives to send them their love. I think of the call into the police and fire stations alerting them of the need for assistance. I cringe at the thought of the calls made in search of loved ones and the calls received about the loss of those that were involved. I pray to God that I never have to receive a call like that.

My husband is a firefighter and there have been a lot of people in passing that ask how I handle him working that type of job. He has long hours and can be gone from home several days at a time. He is the first in and the last out. He will willingly give his life for that of a stranger. He does not fear the unknown...he embraces it and uses it to fuel his drive. I can honestly say that this is his calling and God has placed him in his position for a reason. Back to those who don't know how I do it...especially with a baby...I pray. I give C to the Lord everyday. I know that if he were to die in the line of duty, he would be doing what the Lord has called him to do. He would head to Heaven doing something he loves and has an unwavering passion for. I honestly don't know how people who do not know Christ as their Savior make it through the day. I could not sleep at night if I did not know that the Lord has my husband in His hands.

In our office, my husband has this prayer hanging...I know that it is a prayer that he holds dear to his heart and has meant with each uttered word:

Fireman’s Prayer

When I am called to duty, God
whenever flames may rage,
Give me the strength to save some life
Whatever be its age.

Help me to embrace a little child
Before it’s too late,
Or some older person
from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert
And hear the weakest shout,
And quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling
and give the best in me,
To guard my neighbor
And protect his property.

And if according to Your will
I have to lose my life,
Please bless with Your protecting hand
My children and my wife

 

As this day comes to a close, hold those you love a little bit closer and love them with a fierceness that they'll feel even away from your presence. Thank you God for making all things work together for good...