In our challenging world, the words of Tolkien’s hobbit Frodo to the wizard Gandalf resonate:

“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times.
 But that is not for them to decide.
 All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” 

Creator God, thank You that You are writing a story of adventure with my life.
I yield to the challenges, the shadows and even the necessary pain.
I trust You to bring me home eventually, like the Hobbits to the shire with a song to sing and a story to tell. Amen.