My daughter is a dancer. She has enjoyed the expression of music and movement since she was barely able to walk. Through the years she has grown more familiar with styles and techniques. The spins and maneuvers have been more mentally challenging to learn. The physical strength and endurance required have become more demanding.

For dancers, the balance between their power and agility flows from a strong core. They work routinely on stretching and breathing to be limber and well-conditioned. Much of a class session is spent on rhythmic movement and warm up. They strive to ensure that their muscles are ready for the demand and their mind “flowing” for the task at hand.

The scriptures routinely encourages us to live our lives from a strong core. We hear the ancients before us point us to the Lord as our rock (Psalm 18:2) and our strength (Exodus 15:2). Jesus Christ offered his followers a peace that was unshakable, whatever the chaos we may encounter (John 14:27). Even in the face of death – which will overtake all of us – the Psalmist declared that he would not fear, “… for You, O Lord, are with me.” (Psalm 23:4).

What is at your core? For some it is an uncertainty of themselves. For others it is a fierce self-reliance. For still others there is an ache or soreness from some hurt done long ago that has not healed. For others there is a numbness or emptiness, past the point of longing that feels bigger than the void of all of space.

How we are now, and how God dreams each of us to be, are points that can only be bridged by the grace of God. Blessedly, God extends that grace to each of us, every day.

Whether we are already agile and flexible, or stiff and unbending, God meets us where we are and helps us be responsive and ready. God’s faithfulness, mercies and steadfast love are new every morning whatever else the day may include (Lamentations 3:22-23).

You may be reading this with a morning cup of coffee and are just waking up. Perhaps you have already been out for a run, a walk or a bike ride. Or you may be unwinding after a very long day. Whatever the hour, know this: the Lord is closer than your next thought or breath. Draw a deep breath, and let God be your strength.

REV. MICHAEL P. KENDALL can be reached at mkendall@ farmvilleumc.org.