I spent a lot of time on New York City subways this week.  My son, JT, and I criss-crossed the city to watch Hollianne run a marathon on Sunday.  It was cold, so most everyone on the subway was bundled up and from head to toe- and silent.  I had internally surmised that not many people talk to one another on the subways.  They ride in silence throughout NYC’s five boroughs, quietly awaiting their destination.

JT noticed it.  After a couple of days he remarked that most of the subway riders looked lonely and sad.  While some people crave life in large, metropolitan areas, I would struggle with the impersonal, anonymous grind of daily life in the big city.  I would feel lost.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10

I had a bit of a revelation on Sunday.  We were leaving our train, and somewhere from the depths of the subway tunnel a familiar tune emerged.  It was “Standing on the Promises” being played on a saxophone.  This was one of my grandmother’s favorite hymns, so I picked up on it immediately.  I walked toward the sound and saw a solitary street performer playing this sacred hymn.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.  Isaiah 43:2

Standing on the promises of God.  From the dark portals of the subway arose a sweet reminder that we have no need for despair.  No need to feel alone.  No need to feel helpless.  We have the promise of hope and salvation from our Father- a promise that will not fail.

But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Matthew 10:30

While it can be easy for us to feel helpless and lost, we are valued.  The very hairs of our head are numbered.  God knows everything about us…and we need to be grateful for His great love.

Standing on the promises.  In a subway tunnel.  What a blessing.

Have a wonderful weekend.  God bless.