I thank you Lord not only for the precious gift of life you have given me but for the comfort of having you by my side throughout my odyssey. Sailing in life’s vast ocean is not without perils. The calm seas, beautiful weather and idyllic voyage with family and friends have been interspersed with unexpected storms, lashing winds and heavy swells.
There were times when keeping my vessel on a steady course was a herculean challenge due to uncontrollable pitching and yawing. But thank you Lord for being my pilot onboard. As you took the helm and cautiosly steered the vessel to safety I felt at peace. You were unperturbed gliding with the trough and crest of the rolling billows — something a novice like me couldn’t make on my own. You can skillfully manuever in a narrow channel and you are familiar with every treacherous rocky bottom so my vessel has no danger of running aground.
What a privilege has it been to sail with you my Lord. I know my vessel is not sturdy enough to withstand the gale and there is always the danger of foundering but you taught me how to jettison my excess cargoes to maintain stability and keep afloat. You acquainted me with the technique of proper stowage to prevent listing either to starboard or portside by focusing on what truly matters.
You taught me the principles of watchkeeping while carefully observing the rules of the road. You held my trembling hand when I needed to altercourse to avoid the risk of collision which could jeopardise my soul. You were my unerring compass during the foggy weather when it would have been impossible to find my way through the mist with only my frail human eyesight.
Thank you Lord for teaching me how to cast my anchor deep down in the seabed of your love so that I won’t drift away and to moor my ship in the sheltered harbour of your providence. My joy is beyond words and my gratitude beyond expression for I am greatly blessed, truly valued and deeply loved by you.
Emilie Coo
