Remembering That God Is With Us Wherever We Go

It's October and as the leaves turn colors before our very eyes, we start to think of hardy soup recipes and starting some winter craft projects. In October, we are reminded of the words of our beloved Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley, who tells us of the coming "frost on the punkins."

I'm a grandmother now, but back in the 1980s, October was also a time to plan the Halloween costumes for my children. My own dad took immense pleasure in designing my costumes. For two years running I was the Purple People Eater, wearing bed sheets that were dyed purple and winning prizes in every contest I entered.

I was a pretty independent kid, something you could be living in the suburbs in the 1950s. When I was about eight or nine I told my parents that I wanted to trick or treat on my own. That meant NO parents tagging along.

I still remember their surprise, then their consulting with one another, and finally their agreement. Yes, I could trick or treat alone.

I set out that night, venturing all by myself down my street and then into the next block. The neighborhood was filled with large groups of noisy baby boomers, and I was strong in my stride, happy to be on my own.

But then something, I have no idea what, prompted me to look back, and yes, standing half a block behind me -- just to make sure that I was okay -- was my dad.

I love that memory so much.

In less than 10 years, a massive heart attack took him from us. He was only 47 years old.

He was the best dad, and even today, when anyone says "your dad would be proud of you" or "you are just like your dad" I melt away in puddles.

But I know -- now that I'm on the other side of 60 -- that even as wonderful as my dad was, our divine Father is even better.

And I believe that even on those days when we are being so independent, and so strong in our stride, He is there watching. Sometimes He's half a block away, and sometimes, I believe, that He is as close to us as a thumbprint.

How do we know? Because Scriptures tell us.

In Joshua 1:9 we read, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord is with you wherever you go."

That's why we should have the courage to venture out, to take chances, and to have an attitude of joy -- because the Lord is our constant companion.