When things in life get tough, we’re wired to respond in one of two ways: fight or flight. Me? I’m a runner. Let me explain.

I’m at a phase in life where change is pretty much the only constant. For the last several years, I’ve moved at least once a year and have found myself wondering more than once if it’s even worthwhile to unpack the boxes. Sometimes it feels like I’ve taken the same attitude when it comes to my relationships with God and people. However, over the last few months I thought that things were finally falling into place. I had a plan. I knew where I was going, and where I thought God wanted me. Then, life happened. The thing which seemed to be a sure thing suddenly wasn’t.

So, what did I do? I ran. Actually, I wanted to run. I got frantic. I felt like the best way to handle the loss of my shot at stability was to pick up, move, and pretend that none of this had ever happened. When I stopped to take a breath and look around me, I found that in spite of my attempts to run and self destruct, I had a community of people around me who wanted to support and encourage me even in the midst of my frenzy. Even though I’d tried to emotionally and spiritually box myself up and make a clean exit, I was inextricably linked with the community at Pacific.

During my time of crisis, I found myself turning to the relationships that had been forged on Sunday mornings, in the choir, and in my small group as a means of support and I was shocked by the open, loving response that I encountered. Whether I needed people willing to field my almost hourly phone calls during a series of particularly stressful days, a shoulder to cry on, or even just a joke to make me smile in the midst of the stressful time – I found that it was all right there, within reach. The most remarkable part of what I’ve found here at Pacific is that there is life beyond our plans and ambitions. The things which matter most are the relationships we form along the way. These are the things that shape and mold us as people and the ways in which God is most present and active in our lives.

Fortunately, my situation resolved itself eventually. And when it did, I had this same community of people rejoicing with me, and multiplying my joy as a result. However, I’m confident that if it had not worked out in this way, that my Pacific family would have stood by me nonetheless – a tangible reminder of God’s loving commitment to relationship with us.

In the midst of confusion, I often forget that running away is not usually the best method of coping. Fortunately, I have been blessed with a community of people who serve as constant reminders of the fact that God is present in our daily struggles and that he not only wants us to stick it out, but longs to be invited to come and fight alongside us, strengthening and empowering us along the way so that we’ll be able to glorify him through our lives.

What about you? Have you faced a time when something which you were sure of suddenly was not? Leave us a comment – we’d love to hear about your thoughts and reactions. And, if you’re in the midst of a difficult time and need some prayer or support, use the “Talk to Us” box on the left-hand side of the page to get in touch with someone who cares. Let the Pacific community come alongside you like they’ve done for me. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.