Keep Calm And Carry On

I will lead the blind by ways they have not known,

along unfamiliar paths I will guide them;

I will turn the darkness into light before them…

I will not forsake them. (Isaiah 42:16)

In just a few days, MomsHooPray kicks off our 11th year with something new; the NoVA group will meet OUTSIDE, with the recommended six feet of separation between each mom.

Thus begins the new normal as we walk down an unfamiliar path. Yet we can trust God to guide us because we know that he is a good, good Father. If you ever doubt that, just look to the cross. He’s crazy about us—and our kids.

He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32)

He will indeed turn the darkness into light. That does not mean a spotlight. But enough light to take the next steps. And enough light to u-turn when we see we passed the correct exit. And enough light to see some beauty along the side of the road—no matter how “twisty-turn-y.” And enough light to take a deep breath, stay calm, and carry on.

Sure, there will be hiccups and some measure of discomfort as we (and every other ministry) navigate our new normal, whether with OUTDOOR meetings in Northern VA or with Zoom meetings for the rest of us. Many decisions are still being made. (to make sure you are kept in the loop, please register here)

But with every utterance of why we cannot do familiar things “because of COVID,” we rejoice that “because of Christ,” we are being faithfully guided along unfamiliar paths to try new things. God will continue to draw moms—from NoVA, Richmond, C’ville, PA, NJ, SC—into prayer for their Hoos, the University, fellowships, and faculty.

He knew 10 years ago how many moms would be grateful for this ministry and the friendships forged by praying together. Many of us hardly knew anyone around the circle of moms when we began, but the shared experiences of praying for a son or daughter at UVA elicits a unique bond.

Sure you can turn to the FaceBook UVA Parent Network page for questions, but when the rubber meets the road and your heart is burdened for your student, the word of God and prayer is where believers need to go. The collective wisdom in MomsHooPray from moms who have walked ahead of you—and who will go the second mile to help you—is unmatched.

It’s already been a rough year for all students—everywhere. Only God knows how this school year will roll out. So dig deep in your Bible to shore up your own faith, then join this amazing prayer group, whether in person or online.

Keep calm and go to MomsHooPray.