In the quiet solitude of a dark night, amidst tears and prayers, a soul found solace in the gentle whisper of God. It was a decade ago, on Silent Saturday, April 19, 2014, when an journey of faith took a pivotal turn atop Mount Two-Bit.
Alone, yet not abandoned, a mother stood, her heart heavy with the weight of domestic turmoil, seeking refuge from a toxic relationship. Despite her love, respect, and unwavering commitment, she faced the stark reality of abuse and endangerment, her children’s safety hanging in the balance. It was the first time she hadn’t had her little girl with her to celebrate her girl’s birthday and enjoy Easter. Her children were away for a mandated weekend visitation with their father.
In the depths of despair, she cried out to God, clinging to her faith as her only lifeline. With courage born of desperation, she made the heart-wrenching decision to break free, guided by the conviction that her children deserved a life free from fear.
Through the darkness, God whispered words of affirmation, hope, and tender love, drying her tears and strengthening her resolve. In the midst of uncertainty, she found reassurance in the promise of divine guidance and protection.
With faith as her compass, she embarked on a journey of rebirth, trusting in God’s plan for her and her children. Despite the challenges and obstacles, she persevered, fueled by the unwavering belief that God’s love would see them through.
Through the support of her Temple City Church family, including people like Naomi Weidner, Pastor John & Anna Aiken, and Alfaro, and her newfound La Sierra Church family, like Pastor Chris Oberg, Pastor Austin Nystrom, Pastor Beverly Maravilla, Pastor Ben Amoah, Chaplain Martin Corona, Myton McDonald, and the ladies from the second row, such as Margot Speyer, Ruth Fagal, and Jean Smith, she found the courage to rebuild her life, pursuing higher education and nurturing her children’s dreams. With each step forward, she felt the gentle embrace of God’s love, guiding her along the path of redemption and renewal.
As the years passed, her faith grew stronger, her trust in God unwavering. Today, as she stands once again atop Mount Two-Bit, she reflects on the journey that brought her here—a journey marked by pain, but also by grace, resilience, and profound transformation.
Her son, now on the brink of graduation as an aeronautical engineer, stands as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. Her daughter, blossoming into a talented and independent young woman, embodies the spirit of resilience and hope. She remembers with gratitude how, even amidst the turmoil, her children were safely nestled in the Eagle’s Nest, learning and growing, their potential nurtured by the loving hand of God.
In every trial and triumph, she sees God’s hand at work, weaving a tapestry of redemption and restoration. As she looks to the future, she does so with renewed faith and purpose, knowing that God’s plans for her are plans for good. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).
When she reached the point where words failed, and tears ceased to flow, a gentle breeze enveloped her on that dark night ten years ago, and God’s voice whispered words of love and reassurance. In that sacred moment, flooded with compassion, she understood the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. She visualized his broken heart, dying for humanity’s sins, despite facing rejection.
This profound realization mirrored the pain of her Heavenly Father, witnessing his only Son’s sacrifice out of boundless love. And in that moment, clarity dawned—her children were indeed God’s precious gifts, and they would be okay.
With gratitude in her heart, she embraces the promise of tomorrow, confident that God will continue to guide her steps and fulfill God’s purpose in her life. For in the whisper of God’s love, she finds the strength to soar on wings like eagles, forever grateful for the journey that led her home.
As a Golden Eagle Mom, she will continue to let God shine through her with radiant faith, inspiring others to trust in Jesus’ unfailing love and grace. As God’s daughter, she patiently waits for the right man, who will be a gift from God to her; she anticipates the joy of oneness in marriage—a union blessed by God and rooted in love and respect, and one dependent on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Susana Garcia is the grateful mother of RJ and Ella, and leads our Healthy Living Singles’ Life Group. She is a social worker, DivorceCare coach, and grad student in counseling at La Sierra University.