This morning I very intentionally went outside to the back deck, coffee in hand, for some quiet time with God. I earnestly tried to let go of the worries and fears that seem to obsessively and endlessly circle my mind lately. Just moments before, inside the house, I shared with my husband my recent struggles with stress and anxiety … how despite prayer, exercise, and meditation, I continue to feel like my entire body is wound too tightly.
After a few minutes alone outside, I looked up to see my husband in front of me, propping my foot up on his leg. He silently began rubbing lotion into my feet. The sight of him, quietly offering this simple act of love, completely undid me. Tears rolled down my cheeks unprompted and directionless, much like my emotions.
I didn’t know what I needed in that moment. I didn’t really even know how or what to pray. But apparently, I just needed someone to take care of me, see me, and listen to me. And I know we all feel this way sometimes.
Jesus modeled how we should respond when someone around us is struggling, much like I am right now. Jesus showed up. He listened. He healed. He prayed. He fed. He forgave. He washed feet.
Honestly, I think I need to be reminded that His instructions were this simple. Stop and help the one in front of you. Just love them.
My husband reminded me by his actions today that I am deeply loved, and that life and love aren’t as complicated as I often make them.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians 2:3-4
All my problems haven’t instantly disappeared. My husband’s foot rubs aren’t that magical. But I am feeling a little lighter and a lot happier. My perspective has shifted from the obstacles in front of me to the One who holds the whole world in His hands, and He is more than capable of bringing good from everything that lies before me.
Stop and help the one in front of you, because at some point we are all that person in need. It really is that simple.
Anxiously His,
Nicki
Expressively HIS ... 
Thank you for sharing this. Just what I needed to hear. I too make life and love too complicated.
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Simplicity in life, for me, takes concerted effort. And the same is true for living out my faith. It seems backward, but my nature wants to make things too hard and complex. I will “overthink” every time! I’m so grateful for the example of Jesus.
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💜you and John. Y’all give me hope. Stay strong in Christ my precious friends.
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