The year was 1992.
I possessed all the wisdom of seventeen years life experience.
As an American exchange student to Germany, I bravely boarded the first of four trains to cross the country. Oh Lord, help me actually get there!
Settling into my seat, I double-checked my tickets. All four were there, and I still had my passport. The first two train switches were in populous stations where other students I knew also dispersed. But at each stop, the familiar faces grew fewer and farther between.
I watched the picturesque German country-side flash past my window that warm August day. What will my host family be like? What will my school be like? How soon will I make friends? I know no one where I’m going. I’m all alone.
Fear.
Uncertainty.
Loneliness.
They each descended upon me, weighing more with every passing kilometer.
The hours flew quickly. I arrived at my final destination. Relief flooded me as I spied my host family through the train window. A few members only spoke German, but they each smiled, welcoming me.
I started Gymnasium, or school, a few days later. Although it was hard to stay focused in a foreign language all day, both the teachers and the students cheerfully encouraged me and offered assistance.
My relaxing time was at the close of the day. Lying in bed, I’d journal, read my Bible, and pray.
My Lord had also crossed the ocean. He was with me, providing for me and protecting me each and every day.
What a valuable lesson to learn at seventeen: Wherever I go, God goes with me.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You promise we are never alone. I pray You remind me of this promise today. When I feel lonely, nudge my heart to recall and claim that promise. Thank You that You are indeed everywhere I go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” NIV Hebrews 13:5