I looked at my last blog and was surprised to see that the last time I wrote was on October 16th… wow, that was about three months ago! Looking back, I think I can understand why I let so much time go. Sometimes, in our pursuit of perfection, it is easy to think that the journey is finished – that we understand all we need to know, that we get what it means to be a Christian, and maybe even most of all, to just escape all the pain of the past.
In some ways, it is helpful to let go of the pain from the past. We don’t have to live in that pain and stay in that pain. After all, as Paul says, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,” (Philippians 3:13). Sometimes, we need to keep moving forward. Through the pain, through the hurt. Just keep moving forward. “Just keep swimming” – as Dory would say. 😊
For me, though, I noticed that it was easy to reach a place where I felt comfortable. A little too comfortable. Life is supposed to be lived with God. After all, God loves us all so much. He wants a relationship with us – a real relationship. This involves constant involvement with God.
Every day is a journey. Life is filled with twists and turns, and after these crazy couple of years in our world, I don’t think anyone can deny this. Nonetheless, every day we get a chance to fill it up with God. What an honor to take all our hurts, all our pain and bring it to the foot of Jesus – the One who understands hurt like no other. Jesus was literally killed by the human race. He knows what it’s like to be rejected; He can reach the deepest parts of us.
There is a wonderful peace when we experience the presence of Jesus. It’s that kind of peace that just puts your mind at ease. This is a lot easier to find when I reflect on Jesus with love and not fear. He gets it – He’s on our side! There is no condemnation with Him – He is ready to help us in our time of need. What a precious gift!
Recently, unfortunately, I found myself in a rut with my relationship with God. A rut of feeling like my relationship in the Lord wasn’t moving. The interesting part of being a Christian is that there is constant room to grow. Our relationship with God is like a plant that needs maintenance – I need to ask myself: How can I give more in my relationship with God? How can I maintain this relationship?
“Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:8)
The amazing thing about God is that He takes us in so quickly. Like the prodigal son, He embraces us as our loving Father. No matter what situation we are facing, His arms are open and ready to share with us His marvelous love. Sometimes, it’s not about our situations, it’s simply about receiving Him.
Join me in this prayer:
Lord, I’m sorry for my neglect of You recently. I understand that you know it all. I really don’t know all the answers – I’m trying my best and I’m giving my life over to Your care. I understand that You know all my problems better than I do. You love me and want the best for me. You are gentle and patient when I fail. You guide me back on the path You have chosen for me. I’m thankful that I don’t have to do this life on my own.
I love You. In Jesus name,
Amen