Loneliness

Context is key. In the previous blog, we looked at Moses who was giving the charge to the Israelites to cross over the Jordan and take authority of the land promised to them. It is a strong scene with Moses transferring his mantle to Joshua and making a proclamation to all of Israel to “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God goes with you.”

But, the key lies in the chapters leading up to Deuteronomy 31. The proclamation “Be strong,” is almost like the parting words in a commencement speech. The chapters leading up to the proclamation are chalked full with instruction. These instructions are the game plan for how the Israelites are going to be successful and victorious in the new territory. Continue reading →

We all experience loneliness. We try to escape it, but sometimes it’s just there.

Being a military wife, I know the meaning of loneliness. Before my husband deployed, we rescued a puppy dog for me to have some companionship and noise in the house. We moved specifically to an area where I could be closer to my family. We became members of a church and got involved in a “care group”. We even attempted to build friendships in our newly assigned unit and participate in military retreats.

Even with all those good decisions and well-thought through actions, it was difficult to establish good community and consistent support throughout the 14-month deployment. We struggled in the months leading up to deployment and during the many months of separation. We both experienced loneliness: Me at home and him abroad. Continue reading →

Madeline Stratford

Game Plan for New Territory – Loneliness #2

You Are Not Alone – Loneliness #1