Hello everyone! Chaplain Tim’s sister, Dorris McMaster, has written many wonderful and inspiring devotions. She has offered to send some of them to us so that we can present them on this blog. Thank you so much, Dorris, for today’s blog entry, and for all of your beautiful messages which we’ll present soon!

When I was a small child, probably 6 or 7 years old, my parents took me and my 2 siblings to the L.A. County Fair. It was in our hometown, so each year we usually went to the fair 2 or 3 times. But before we arrived at the fair each time, my parents told us to make sure we all stuck together–no wandering off by ourselves.
I loved the fair. I loved every one of the animals, and I collected all the literature they handed out at the booths. And of course, the food and rides were great too.
During one of our fair visits, we were having a great time looking at all the exhibits. It was very crowded, and there were people everywhere. We stood watching a man demonstrating a product he was trying to sell. I was so little and short that I could not see over all the people. Instead of staying with my family, I moved around a group of spectators watching the demonstration so I could see better.
As soon as the demonstration was over, I turned around to find my parents. They were nowhere in sight. I was so scared that I started to cry. I looked all around, but I had no luck, and I was terrified.
At that moment, I felt a hand on my shoulder. It was my dad’s hand. He said to me, “Don’t cry, honey. I’m right here. I knew where you were the whole time. I never let you out of my sight. Next time, do what we tell you and stay with us.”
“Okay,” I replied, and I stuck like glue to them the rest of the day.
Just as my father did, God is watching over us continually. He is always with us, even when we stray from Him. Proverbs 15:3 says, “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” (NIV) And in Psalm 121:8 it says, “The Lord will watch your coming and going both now and forevermore.” (NIV)
I have always loved the peace God gives us. Whenever we’re feeling lost or going through hard times, we can know that He is present, and He will help us through our situations.
There are numerous verses about God’s peace and comfort in the Bible. I want to leave you with one of my favorites. John 14:27 says “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let your heart not be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (NIV)
So, the next time you feel lost and scared like I once felt at the fair, begin to pray and meditate, because God will be there to comfort you and give you peace.
Thank you for reading this, and may the Lord give you a wonderful week! We are trying to reach people who are hurting, so if God lays it on your heart, please consider becoming a partner with us. If you would like to make a donation, please visit www.hcmachaplains.org and click on the Donate Now link. You can also send donations by mail to HCMA (Healthcare Chaplains Ministry Association). Our ID number is 560. The address is 101 S Kraemer BLVD, Suite 123A, Placentia, CA 92870.
Finally, you’re always welcome to join our Tuesday night Bible study. These studies are conducted by conference call, and they take place at 6:30 PM Arizona time. Our conference number is 313-209-8800. Our PIN is 8699032. We hope to talk with you soon!
If you have questions, comments or prayer requests for Timothy or Stephanie Burdick, please call 507-369-6861.