Homecoming of the Heart
What happens when the waiting feels endless, and God’s promises seem hard to believe? In this heartfelt reflection, discover how one journey through loneliness, responsibility, and seasons of uncertainty becomes a beautiful reminder that God has never left us. Sometimes, His plan
By Aericka Jyle Garcia-ParañganPinching myself, still in disbelief that my parents are finally home for good. I might have waited my entire childhood for this, and here they are in the flesh— healthy, all smiles, waving at me as I pick them up from the airport, excited to make up for all the lost time.
My parents have been on diplomatic foreign assignments for as long as I can remember. As their only child, I’ve succumbed to the pressure of handling responsibilities they’ve left behind. From managing the household to paying bills and taking care of myself in-between, it hasn’t always been easy. For a moment, I’ve struggled under the weight of it all and found myself doubting God’s presence in my life.
In the midst of questioning my faith, I came across a bible verse from Jeremiah 29:11: 11For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Stubborn as I was, I didn’t believe it. If there was a God, why do I feel alone? If He had plans for me, why does everything feel uncertain; heavy? If I am promised hope and a future, why do I feel empty? Curious, I decided to read the verses that followed, which turned out to be a life-changing moment for me:
12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Since then, I’ve tried to seek God even in the ordinary— quiet weekends at home, having the luxury of time all to myself, celebrating occasions with only a handful, acknowledging the unwavering support of family. It was in the intimate, mundane days when I gradually learned that God’s love is simple, but consistent; I just needed to open my heart and learn how to find it.
It’s been quite a journey. As I watch my parents from a distance, I realize that everything I’ve been through has led to this moment. It feels like a chapter has closed at last. Yet, without all that’s happened, I wouldn’t have experienced growth; I wouldn’t have known God. He did have a plan for me all along.