Tears of Joy

 

With some understandable trepidation, I set the satnav for LAX. It’s an easy drive up the coast, until you get there. ‘Stay left,’ she instructed, ‘stay on Airport Way’ – only there weren’t any signs for Airport Way (if that was the name – I can’t remember now!). I stayed left, as far left as I could, which turned out to be too far left.

‘Make a u-turn,’ she said.

What?

I did it and soon was headed in a new direction of concrete flyovers and traffic speeding. I prayed like mad. I had no idea where I was going. Finally I was in the horseshoe: terminals on the right, parking on the left. ‘Turn left,’ she said. I did, but too soon it turned out. Soon I was again headed into unknown territory. Help!

Somehow I found myself back in the horseshoe, this time on the Departures level. Determined to park and walk. Which I did, and it turned out I was very close to the international arrivals, just up two floors. Easy.

I stood with others eagerly awaiting the arrival of their loved ones. I wiped away tears as I heard the sobs of joy as grandparents clasped their grandchildren. I waited. For nearly an hour, a sea of humanity rolled by me, from every corner of the globe.

Finally I saw that familiar, much-loved face. Don is here. I could breathe again.

So many people pouring into LA. And God knows every one. Every one has a story, a joy, a sorrow, a need, an ambition. I continue to be blown away by God’s love and provision. In the midst of a tsunami of need, needs much bigger than any I may have, he continues to hear my cries for help, and guide and protect me.

Gratitude. With my arms held high, I will worship the God who is always there, always available, whatever the need. The God who weeps tears of joy when he sees his children approaching, who weeps tears of sorrow when he sees his children’s heartbreak.

Gearing up for a return trip to LAX this afternoon. This time for Doug from Brisbane. Haven’t seen him for nearly two years. Expecting tears.