Manna, by Joan of Green Pastures Christian Writers

While I’ve been navigating my way through being my husband’s carer, time to write has been almost non-existent even though I believe deep down inside me there are things God wants me to record. Each morning I try to spend time with God before the day’s essential routines begin. For some time now the word ‘manna’ has inspired my prayers and my journalling. 

The Israelites wandered around in the unknown, much like I feel now, and were provided with what they needed for the day. Manna was apparently nourishing, bread-like food that tasted like ‘wafers made with honey’ (Ex. 16:31). It would rot by the next day if they tried to keep it, but there would always be a fresh supply in the morning.

My prayer each day has been, ‘Please give me the manna I need for today.’ By that I mean wisdom, energy and strength to negotiate the ever-changing and increasing demands of coping with dementia and serious ill-health – because what works today may not work tomorrow. I cannot hold rigidly to any practice or recognisable experience because undoubtedly something will arise tomorrow that throws me into facing a new situation.

‘So now what do I do, God?’

‘Where’s that lost item, God?’

‘How do I cope with this situation, physically, mentally and emotionally?’

‘How do I deal with the next phase?’

I need a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit everyday with its unique provision. Yesterday’s gifts, appreciated and helpful though they were, won’t do. It’s today’s I need. 

Yes, the Israelites moaned that manna was repetitive, so boring that they even lost their appetite for it completely. Eventually, of course, they died but their ancestors finally reached the land of milk and honey. I understand repetitiveness very well, and the feelings of being bored and of feeling overwhelmed. But God is providing me with what I need. It takes the form of promptings, guidance and direction, plus reliable and supportive friends. One of these friends has allowed me to take a break, giving me this rare opportunity to sit in a peaceful hotel and write down – yes, actually write – these musings on manna while he beautifully and competently cares for my husband.

This is today’s precious manna indeed.