'When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.' (Isaiah 43:2)

Are you treading water? Barely afloat? I love to tell the story of Noah's ark, not that I believe it literally, but rather, I like to show a boat rising higher and higher as the water just keeps coming. Some folks know those times well, when the water keeps rising. I can't imagine what it's been like living in Puerto Rico. While the waters have receded, the flood of discouragement continues with many people still living in the dark, months after their hurricane and deluge.

My nephew and his family are experiencing "the flood" in their lives right now. His name is Casey, and he needs a bone marrow transplant. His wife, a registered nurse, knows his odds of successful treatment are not good. His heart and lungs are not functioning well and they have been inundated with bad news. Their four children miss being with their hospital-confined father.

So, I wear a t-shirt printed with Casey's name on it and the quote from Isaiah that assures us God goes with us through deep waters. I believe that is true. Since Casey is not a sailor and he lives inland, I wrote a Country Western song asking God to saddle up with Casey during his difficult journey.

Here's my song, "Saddle Up With Casey"

The sun is hiding, But we know it's still there.

The sky is gray, And somethings just ain't fair.

Casey needs new marrow,

And his four kids need him strong.

God, get him a match,

And don't make him wait too long.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You're there.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You care.

God, You count each hair

in his soft full grizzly beard.

Protect his little children -

Don't let them be a'feared.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You're there.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You care.

It's gonna be a long ride,

Kick'in cancer every mile.

Pull on some boots to do it;

Nothing stops Casey's big smile.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You're there.

Saddle up with Casey, Let him know You care.

Be his guide through this here journey.

Wrap your arms around his wife.

Ease his pain and worry. Cease his strife and give long life.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know

You're there.

Saddle up with Casey,

Let him know You care.

May God go with Casey, Puerto Ricans, refugees, all those who currently suffer - maybe some who are reading this article. And, may we be God's hands and feet to go with one another mirroring God's love and concern.

Blessings, Rainbows, Life Rafts and Swift Ponies, Pastor Nancy

About Tehachapi Community Church, UCC:

No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life's journey, you're welcome here!

The Tehachapi Community Church, UCC is an open and welcoming community of faith that believes that each person, created in the image of God, holds a piece of the truth. Therefore we respect each person's unique spiritual journey. We invite you to experience the difference that religious freedom in a caring community can make in that journey.

We are located at 100 East E St., in Tehachapi. Worship and Sunday School are at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. Please join us for coffee and fellowship at our Friendship Hall after worship (approximately 11:30 a.m.).

All are welcome.