Typing on my old computer, brings back such memories. Slow as molasses, but somehow it doesn't seem to matter between old friends...
I once had a dream when I was younger.. you know, that time when little girls dreamed of growing up to be nurses or housewives - well I had something different in mind.
I wanted, with all my heart, to help people see.
To take a blind person and describe the shine that gleams off the brightest red corvette, or the look of that wonderfully delicious apple pie, steaming as it comes out of the oven.
To dance a waltz with a wheelchair bound prisioner, who thought two wheels could stop him from living.
To bring music back to a broken soul, strings back to fingers like forgotten friends.
I once thought that only the blind could not see, now I wonder if anyone truly sees.
People like to ask me where my passion for writing comes from...
Ask the little girl, she knows.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
To Twenty Three
Tomorrow I turn 23. To be honest, I never thought I would make it this far. Between the reckless driving (wink wink) and the overwhelming number of times I had the same sickening thought, "I'm in serious trouble".. well, they all equal a solid "I really shouldn't be here".
Many say fate is what guides us along, that destiny will show us the purpose of life. So we long and look, waiting for that perfect moment, with that perfect person. To find the one passion that defines us and infuses us with life - for that is to find the meaning of life.
The Greeks only asked one question when a person died, "Did he live with passion?" For passion, is what makes life worth living.
I met a man in a coffee shop the other day, dying of cancer. With sadness, he looked back over his life, wondering if it mattered at all. Oh, he had plenty of passion, and had found success. But as he talked about his exploits and all the dignitaries he had met, there was an emptiness deep inside that he could not explain.
The world has much to say to a twenty-three year old. Now is the time to get married, you know, start on the path to success, and goodness gracious please leave your adolescence behind!
It makes me smile, for Someone has already defined me.
The Greeks were right; without passion, there is no life. But what is passion without a worthy purpose? A dangerous combination.
He who is Life has found me, and infused in me a passion that my heart cannot explain. The hands of fate are my Fathers, and He gently pushes me along the path of righteousness. My destiny is so much higher than the stars, for one day I shall reign in heaven!
I am twenty three. Married to the Lamb who gave His life for me - storing up riches in heaven never seen by the eyes of men. Loving Him is my passion, my purpose to shout the praises of Him who gave me what this world never could.
La Heim! La Heim! Wherever it leads!
Many say fate is what guides us along, that destiny will show us the purpose of life. So we long and look, waiting for that perfect moment, with that perfect person. To find the one passion that defines us and infuses us with life - for that is to find the meaning of life.
The Greeks only asked one question when a person died, "Did he live with passion?" For passion, is what makes life worth living.
I met a man in a coffee shop the other day, dying of cancer. With sadness, he looked back over his life, wondering if it mattered at all. Oh, he had plenty of passion, and had found success. But as he talked about his exploits and all the dignitaries he had met, there was an emptiness deep inside that he could not explain.
The world has much to say to a twenty-three year old. Now is the time to get married, you know, start on the path to success, and goodness gracious please leave your adolescence behind!
It makes me smile, for Someone has already defined me.
The Greeks were right; without passion, there is no life. But what is passion without a worthy purpose? A dangerous combination.
He who is Life has found me, and infused in me a passion that my heart cannot explain. The hands of fate are my Fathers, and He gently pushes me along the path of righteousness. My destiny is so much higher than the stars, for one day I shall reign in heaven!
I am twenty three. Married to the Lamb who gave His life for me - storing up riches in heaven never seen by the eyes of men. Loving Him is my passion, my purpose to shout the praises of Him who gave me what this world never could.
La Heim! La Heim! Wherever it leads!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
He is worthy
Our God reigns in the heavens. Orchestrating all events, He "works all things according to the counsel of His will" (Eph 1).
This will - what is it? Men seek, but do not understand. A mystery has been hidden for all time. The prophets search, and speak of wonders their minds cannot fathom. High in the heavens, mighty angels watch curiously, longing to have a look at the Master's plan. The world cries "Who is worthy?" as it slips into decay, groaning with burdens unforseen by men.
Seated on His throne, the God who penned every moment, every life upon a page, was not finished. The author of life had written Himself into this story.
"I looked, and behold, in the midst stood a Lamb as though it had been slain..."
My tears are swept aside, as the angel chides, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David has PREVAILED"
A Man sits on a throne, His appearance like fire. Above all principalities and powers He reigns, and the earth rests beneath His feet.
With a word, He speaks the world into existence; without a word, He looks upon the men He created and bows His head in sacrifice.
By Him and for His pleasure were all things created in heaven and on earth. Yet with a mighty cry, He bore the agony of all time. "My God, My God.. WHY?"
Thunder and lightening rends the sky, the earth shakes in reply. The hidden mystery which God had ordained before the beginning of time bows his head in victory and cries, "Tetelestai", for it was FINISHED.
Before His feet every knee bows, and on every tongue is the sound of His name.
With one voice they cry, "You are worthy, for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood" (Rev 5)
From every tongue, and tribe, and people and nation, this God has raised up a people unto Himself - and has made them kings and priests to reign on this earth.
Who is worthy? His majesty none can describe; His sovereignty beyond all question. With compassion and kindness, He reached out to save a world running to destruction. While the words "Crucify Him" were still on their lips, they watched the Author of life die - and by His death, give them life.
Once we walked in darkness, and looked in hatred at the light. Now, we are a "chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.. so that we may proclaim His praises" (1 Peter 2).
He alone is worthy.
This will - what is it? Men seek, but do not understand. A mystery has been hidden for all time. The prophets search, and speak of wonders their minds cannot fathom. High in the heavens, mighty angels watch curiously, longing to have a look at the Master's plan. The world cries "Who is worthy?" as it slips into decay, groaning with burdens unforseen by men.
Seated on His throne, the God who penned every moment, every life upon a page, was not finished. The author of life had written Himself into this story.
"I looked, and behold, in the midst stood a Lamb as though it had been slain..."
My tears are swept aside, as the angel chides, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David has PREVAILED"
A Man sits on a throne, His appearance like fire. Above all principalities and powers He reigns, and the earth rests beneath His feet.
With a word, He speaks the world into existence; without a word, He looks upon the men He created and bows His head in sacrifice.
By Him and for His pleasure were all things created in heaven and on earth. Yet with a mighty cry, He bore the agony of all time. "My God, My God.. WHY?"
Thunder and lightening rends the sky, the earth shakes in reply. The hidden mystery which God had ordained before the beginning of time bows his head in victory and cries, "Tetelestai", for it was FINISHED.
Before His feet every knee bows, and on every tongue is the sound of His name.
With one voice they cry, "You are worthy, for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood" (Rev 5)
From every tongue, and tribe, and people and nation, this God has raised up a people unto Himself - and has made them kings and priests to reign on this earth.
Who is worthy? His majesty none can describe; His sovereignty beyond all question. With compassion and kindness, He reached out to save a world running to destruction. While the words "Crucify Him" were still on their lips, they watched the Author of life die - and by His death, give them life.
Once we walked in darkness, and looked in hatred at the light. Now, we are a "chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.. so that we may proclaim His praises" (1 Peter 2).
He alone is worthy.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Hello Adulthood
Well hello adulthood. I must admit; you were not what I expected. The little girl that dreamed about what it would be like to 'grow up' has had quite the surprise. Oh I saw the responsibility, the independence, the 'living life on your own'.
But I failed to foresee my knees on the floor, my face bowed low. My King had an entirely different plan. He shattered all my expectations, my desires, my plans. In a still small voice, He continually whispers, "Lift up your head, my dear, and look over here."
"Where? Lord I cannot see!" my soul cries in despair.
I imagine His smile as He replies, "Your eyes on the temporal, your faith in this world, will never see all that I AM."
Life through the eyes of faith is the only way to see the eternal.
My eyes dart around, I take my gaze off of Him. The world spins. I find myself falling, faster and faster, and I cannot find my way.
Of course! I laugh when I finally remember; this life is not for me.
Hosea listens, the Lord speaks, "marry a prostitute and love her". Did he weep? The Bible does not say... "So I obeyed" (Hosea 1).
Hosea understood - this life is not about me. My fulfillment is not in accomplishments, my purpose is not in happiness. No, only a vessel, to be used by Him. It's all about the glory.
Jesus understood. "I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.." (John 17).
Will I understand?
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this world will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace"
I life my eyes unto the mountains, for my help comes from the Lord.
Hello adulthood. Have you met my GOD?
But I failed to foresee my knees on the floor, my face bowed low. My King had an entirely different plan. He shattered all my expectations, my desires, my plans. In a still small voice, He continually whispers, "Lift up your head, my dear, and look over here."
"Where? Lord I cannot see!" my soul cries in despair.
I imagine His smile as He replies, "Your eyes on the temporal, your faith in this world, will never see all that I AM."
Life through the eyes of faith is the only way to see the eternal.
My eyes dart around, I take my gaze off of Him. The world spins. I find myself falling, faster and faster, and I cannot find my way.
Of course! I laugh when I finally remember; this life is not for me.
Hosea listens, the Lord speaks, "marry a prostitute and love her". Did he weep? The Bible does not say... "So I obeyed" (Hosea 1).
Hosea understood - this life is not about me. My fulfillment is not in accomplishments, my purpose is not in happiness. No, only a vessel, to be used by Him. It's all about the glory.
Jesus understood. "I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.." (John 17).
Will I understand?
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this world will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace"
I life my eyes unto the mountains, for my help comes from the Lord.
Hello adulthood. Have you met my GOD?
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Coward
I stared into the face of a coward tonight. Her eyes met mine; unflinching, no hint of shame. Only a tinge of sadness marked her face, a kind of resignation to her fate.
I threw my accusations against her, my voice rising in disgust. How could she bear to live that way?
Old eyes. I could feel myself falling, lost in its depths, desperately looking for a way out.
"Bravery", they said, "A wish we cannot find; a wind that touches, caresses, and then is gone, and the place remembers it no more".
"Try harder!" I cried.
"It is no use", they said. "What more can we do?"
Desperation flooded my soul, my voice too shaken to utter a sound.
Defeated eyes rose to meet mine, compassion turned to look my way.
I stared into the face of a coward tonight, and the mirror stared right back at me.
I threw my accusations against her, my voice rising in disgust. How could she bear to live that way?
Old eyes. I could feel myself falling, lost in its depths, desperately looking for a way out.
"Bravery", they said, "A wish we cannot find; a wind that touches, caresses, and then is gone, and the place remembers it no more".
"Try harder!" I cried.
"It is no use", they said. "What more can we do?"
Desperation flooded my soul, my voice too shaken to utter a sound.
Defeated eyes rose to meet mine, compassion turned to look my way.
I stared into the face of a coward tonight, and the mirror stared right back at me.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Lessons on forgiveness from a 5 yr old
First, let me introduce you to Lee Margaret. She is the sweetest, cutest, 5-yr-old I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She loves to laugh, run, and always has a smile on her face!
One night during devotions, she told us the story of Jesus on the cross. "Jesus came to save people from their sins. But bad men hurt him, oh yes, they hit him with sticks and were very mean. But He still loved them and died on the cross for them. He didn't stay dead though, because angels came and now He is alive in heaven!"
We were all left in tears. "That's right, Lee Margaret", one of the counselors said, and in our hearts resounded one amen.
The Story of Forgiveness
It was the night of Council Ring, where all the girls gather in their tribes around the fire, eager for the new "pale-face" campers to be initiated into a tribe.
I was also to be inititated as part of Central Staff, an extremely gross but fun experience. They blindfolded me and drenched me in maple syrup, baby powder, mayo, birdseed - and much more!
Once they took off my blindfold, I was eager to get someone messy. So i chased one of the other Central Staff around the fire and jumped on her to hug her! In the chaos, she fell right into one of the tribes, right on top of Lee Margaret.
Imagine. Tons of girls screaming, excitement, and all of a sudden, everyone is falling on top of you. In her fear, and pain from hitting her head on the bench, she started crying immediately. Her mom rushed in, scooped her up, and started carrying her back to camp.
I felt awful. I ran to catch up with her, eager to apologize and make things right. Those little eyes met mine, and a big smile came upon her face. "I forgive you. It's ok Ewen, I love you." Full and complete forgiveness from a pair of innocent brown eyes.
She opened her arms to give me a hug. "But Lee Margaret", I said, "I am really messy and dirty. You don't want to hug me now."
"I don't care", she said, and gave me the biggest hug ever. "Lee Margaret", I said with tears welling up in my eyes, "I have a secret for you. I'm going to let you sleep with my stuffed animal, Ella the Elephant, tonight!"
She squealed with utter delight. And with another hug, we walked hand in hand, back to camp, best of friends.
I could tell you theoretically what forgiveness looks like. I can give you all the Bible verses pertaining to forgiveness. But Lee Margaret gave me so much more - she lived it.
She has never once brought up that day again. I'm convinced it's because she has completely forgotten about it. True forgiveness does that.
One night during devotions, she told us the story of Jesus on the cross. "Jesus came to save people from their sins. But bad men hurt him, oh yes, they hit him with sticks and were very mean. But He still loved them and died on the cross for them. He didn't stay dead though, because angels came and now He is alive in heaven!"
We were all left in tears. "That's right, Lee Margaret", one of the counselors said, and in our hearts resounded one amen.
The Story of Forgiveness
It was the night of Council Ring, where all the girls gather in their tribes around the fire, eager for the new "pale-face" campers to be initiated into a tribe.
I was also to be inititated as part of Central Staff, an extremely gross but fun experience. They blindfolded me and drenched me in maple syrup, baby powder, mayo, birdseed - and much more!
Once they took off my blindfold, I was eager to get someone messy. So i chased one of the other Central Staff around the fire and jumped on her to hug her! In the chaos, she fell right into one of the tribes, right on top of Lee Margaret.
Imagine. Tons of girls screaming, excitement, and all of a sudden, everyone is falling on top of you. In her fear, and pain from hitting her head on the bench, she started crying immediately. Her mom rushed in, scooped her up, and started carrying her back to camp.
I felt awful. I ran to catch up with her, eager to apologize and make things right. Those little eyes met mine, and a big smile came upon her face. "I forgive you. It's ok Ewen, I love you." Full and complete forgiveness from a pair of innocent brown eyes.
She opened her arms to give me a hug. "But Lee Margaret", I said, "I am really messy and dirty. You don't want to hug me now."
"I don't care", she said, and gave me the biggest hug ever. "Lee Margaret", I said with tears welling up in my eyes, "I have a secret for you. I'm going to let you sleep with my stuffed animal, Ella the Elephant, tonight!"
She squealed with utter delight. And with another hug, we walked hand in hand, back to camp, best of friends.
I could tell you theoretically what forgiveness looks like. I can give you all the Bible verses pertaining to forgiveness. But Lee Margaret gave me so much more - she lived it.
She has never once brought up that day again. I'm convinced it's because she has completely forgotten about it. True forgiveness does that.
Friday, July 13, 2012
God gives the increase..
Another ministry. Another adventure. Sitting outside on the porch at Hollymont wondering, "God, what now?"
"Open your heart again, let my love pour from your soul." Deep breath. I can do this. Wait, no. He can do this.
"Who is Paul, and who is Apollos but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one" (1 Cor 3). Who am I?
Paul planted. Apollos watered. But GOD gave the increase. (vs 7) Faith and trust come from God, not men. So often I think that response happens because of what I say, because of what I do. How foolish and vain I can so easily become!
"So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters".. why? Because all glory is to God "who gives the increase"!
So we plant with joy, and water in faith. He calls us to serve, to work mightily in order that we may "present every man perfect in Christ Jesus" (Col 1).
We are fellow laborers in Christ, sought by grace, bought with blood. We give because we cannot hold back; we tell because we cannot be silent.
Each to his post, there is much to be done. How shall I measure up to the soldiers by my side? Then I remember... we are all just clay pots. "We have this treasure in eathern vessels, so that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us" (2 Cor 4:7). There is no competition.
"Now he who plants and he who waters are one.." One purpose. One goal. The supremacy of Christ in all things, so that all majesty will be ascribed to the One who is worthy of all.
Back to my post, there is much to be done.
"Open your heart again, let my love pour from your soul." Deep breath. I can do this. Wait, no. He can do this.
"Who is Paul, and who is Apollos but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one" (1 Cor 3). Who am I?
Paul planted. Apollos watered. But GOD gave the increase. (vs 7) Faith and trust come from God, not men. So often I think that response happens because of what I say, because of what I do. How foolish and vain I can so easily become!
"So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters".. why? Because all glory is to God "who gives the increase"!
So we plant with joy, and water in faith. He calls us to serve, to work mightily in order that we may "present every man perfect in Christ Jesus" (Col 1).
We are fellow laborers in Christ, sought by grace, bought with blood. We give because we cannot hold back; we tell because we cannot be silent.
Each to his post, there is much to be done. How shall I measure up to the soldiers by my side? Then I remember... we are all just clay pots. "We have this treasure in eathern vessels, so that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us" (2 Cor 4:7). There is no competition.
"Now he who plants and he who waters are one.." One purpose. One goal. The supremacy of Christ in all things, so that all majesty will be ascribed to the One who is worthy of all.
Back to my post, there is much to be done.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Kisses from Katie, Lessons from God.
The contrast is more than I can take.
The wind is slightly bending the trees in the Starbucks outdoor seating area. Iced vanilla coffee in hand, I'm reading Kisses from Katie as I enjoy the sunshine.
Red dirt. Vomit. Scabies. One woman's fight to save the children of Uganda and provide the basic medical neccessities to keep them alive. My heart is torn with hers and my eyes fill up with tears as I read about the precious children she loves.
I lift my head from the pages and watch a Lexus drive into the upscale Wilmington shopping center where I am sipping my drink.
"Lord, what am I doing here?" my heart cries within. But as I continue to read, I am struck by her words to me. No condemnation falls from her lips, only encouragment to live for Him.
It is then that I realize: It matters not where, it matters not how. I feel the scales fall from my eyes as I see disease all around me. Not the kind that screams on the outside, but the one that whispers within. A life without Him, is no life at all.
I may never write a book that is published, or make the New York Times Bestseller list. But everyday I write pages in people's lives, for good or evil, for Christ or for me.
Love just one more life, for just one more matters. It may not be Africa, but whomever He places in your life today. And tomorrow. And for the rest of your life. Do we not believe that He is sovereign to give, and to ask? Worthy enough to serve?
I came home to receive a letter from one of the girls I taught over the weekend for a church retreat. This is what she wrote:
"All my life I have craved so much more than than this world could offer. I had no clue where to start, or how to begin a true walk with Christ. Your messages answered so many of my questions and truly gave me insight into God's love. Before you came, I was slipping away, but I thank you for giving me my life back"
Humbled. I went to the retreat thinking I was wasting my time... how could one weekend change anything? It can't.
But He can. One more life to love, because one more ALWAYS matters.
The wind is slightly bending the trees in the Starbucks outdoor seating area. Iced vanilla coffee in hand, I'm reading Kisses from Katie as I enjoy the sunshine.
Red dirt. Vomit. Scabies. One woman's fight to save the children of Uganda and provide the basic medical neccessities to keep them alive. My heart is torn with hers and my eyes fill up with tears as I read about the precious children she loves.
I lift my head from the pages and watch a Lexus drive into the upscale Wilmington shopping center where I am sipping my drink.
"Lord, what am I doing here?" my heart cries within. But as I continue to read, I am struck by her words to me. No condemnation falls from her lips, only encouragment to live for Him.
It is then that I realize: It matters not where, it matters not how. I feel the scales fall from my eyes as I see disease all around me. Not the kind that screams on the outside, but the one that whispers within. A life without Him, is no life at all.
I may never write a book that is published, or make the New York Times Bestseller list. But everyday I write pages in people's lives, for good or evil, for Christ or for me.
Love just one more life, for just one more matters. It may not be Africa, but whomever He places in your life today. And tomorrow. And for the rest of your life. Do we not believe that He is sovereign to give, and to ask? Worthy enough to serve?
I came home to receive a letter from one of the girls I taught over the weekend for a church retreat. This is what she wrote:
"All my life I have craved so much more than than this world could offer. I had no clue where to start, or how to begin a true walk with Christ. Your messages answered so many of my questions and truly gave me insight into God's love. Before you came, I was slipping away, but I thank you for giving me my life back"
Humbled. I went to the retreat thinking I was wasting my time... how could one weekend change anything? It can't.
But He can. One more life to love, because one more ALWAYS matters.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Messiah King
"Excuse me sir," Mary asks, "Have you seen my Lord?" The gardner hesitates, then says with a smile, "Mary, my dear, it is I".
Two friends trudge along a dusty highway, their faces drawn. A stranger suddenly appears, walking beside them, "why the long faces my friends?" he asks. Incredulous, they respond, "have you not heard? The one thought to be the Messiah is dead!"
"Don't you know?" He says with a sigh, "The prophets spoke of this happening all along, for only through my death can you ever have life."
The waves lap against the side of Simon Peter's fishing boat. A man cries from the shore, "Have you caught any fish?" "No sir," Peter replies, "we've been fishing all day and haven't caught a thing!"
"Of course," the man says, "you haven't caught a fish, for I have made you to be fishers of men".
Is this really the Lord?!!
Victorious over death, conquering King, risen Messiah, this is HE?
Make no mistake, the gardener is KING. The traveler is LORD. The fisherman is SAVIOR of the world.
Death has no sting, hell has no victory, the wrath of God has been satisfied for all time! The quiet gardener sits on HIS THRONE. The dusty traveler REIGNS ON HIGH. And the fisherman? He is LORD of the hearts of men.
Be not fooled, my dear friends, for one day every knee will bow in heaven and earth. With a great shout and a sword in His mouth, He will proclaim: "I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, I AM THE LORD GOD AND THERE IS NO OTHER.
Salvation alone belongs to the KING.
Two friends trudge along a dusty highway, their faces drawn. A stranger suddenly appears, walking beside them, "why the long faces my friends?" he asks. Incredulous, they respond, "have you not heard? The one thought to be the Messiah is dead!"
"Don't you know?" He says with a sigh, "The prophets spoke of this happening all along, for only through my death can you ever have life."
The waves lap against the side of Simon Peter's fishing boat. A man cries from the shore, "Have you caught any fish?" "No sir," Peter replies, "we've been fishing all day and haven't caught a thing!"
"Of course," the man says, "you haven't caught a fish, for I have made you to be fishers of men".
Is this really the Lord?!!
Victorious over death, conquering King, risen Messiah, this is HE?
Make no mistake, the gardener is KING. The traveler is LORD. The fisherman is SAVIOR of the world.
Death has no sting, hell has no victory, the wrath of God has been satisfied for all time! The quiet gardener sits on HIS THRONE. The dusty traveler REIGNS ON HIGH. And the fisherman? He is LORD of the hearts of men.
Be not fooled, my dear friends, for one day every knee will bow in heaven and earth. With a great shout and a sword in His mouth, He will proclaim: "I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, I AM THE LORD GOD AND THERE IS NO OTHER.
Salvation alone belongs to the KING.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Water
Water. I scuff my feet in the sand, scanning the ground for any sight of it. Desert surrounds me, and the dry air scorches my already cracking lips. I swallow, willing some moisture down my parched throat. I know the end is near; my steps are already beginning to falter as my head hangs lower in the heat.
All of a sudden, I lift my eyes to see the most beautiful sight. A stream, running through the desert mountains, surrounded by reeds and plants all enjoying the life-giving water. In a moment, I am there, standing at the edge. I long to jump in and drink from the water that never runs dry... yet anxiously I wait, hoping to see someone who can give me a drink. I am met with only a Voice.
"So long, my child, you have desired to drink from the well that never runs dry. But you have always looked to someone else to hand you a cup, to offer you this life. Jump in and drink from Me!"
All my life I have depeneded on other people to show me the way to my Father. I have stood on the edge, crying out to those who are drinking, "Please, share with me a cup!"
And so they did. But as soon as I was finished, I was thirsty for more. And the closer I got, the more people behind me would beg for water too! I found myself asking for cups, passing them along to those who were spiritually dry.. leaving little for me.
Oh how tired I became! "Give more, Lord? I have nothing left to give!" Until the day when He finally brought me to the edge and said, "Come to me and drink and you will never be thirsty again. I gave my life so that you may have life more abundantely!"
Jump in the only water that will ever satisfy the longings of your soul. Give your life so that others may know that Jesus alone can bring life! And show the world more than a cup, but a life lived dripping wet.
"Ho! Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near" (Isaiah 55)
"Waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. A highway shall be there, and a road, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness... the Redeemed shall walk there and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads" (Isaiah 35)
All of a sudden, I lift my eyes to see the most beautiful sight. A stream, running through the desert mountains, surrounded by reeds and plants all enjoying the life-giving water. In a moment, I am there, standing at the edge. I long to jump in and drink from the water that never runs dry... yet anxiously I wait, hoping to see someone who can give me a drink. I am met with only a Voice.
"So long, my child, you have desired to drink from the well that never runs dry. But you have always looked to someone else to hand you a cup, to offer you this life. Jump in and drink from Me!"
All my life I have depeneded on other people to show me the way to my Father. I have stood on the edge, crying out to those who are drinking, "Please, share with me a cup!"
And so they did. But as soon as I was finished, I was thirsty for more. And the closer I got, the more people behind me would beg for water too! I found myself asking for cups, passing them along to those who were spiritually dry.. leaving little for me.
Oh how tired I became! "Give more, Lord? I have nothing left to give!" Until the day when He finally brought me to the edge and said, "Come to me and drink and you will never be thirsty again. I gave my life so that you may have life more abundantely!"
Jump in the only water that will ever satisfy the longings of your soul. Give your life so that others may know that Jesus alone can bring life! And show the world more than a cup, but a life lived dripping wet.
"Ho! Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near" (Isaiah 55)
"Waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. A highway shall be there, and a road, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness... the Redeemed shall walk there and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads" (Isaiah 35)
Monday, January 16, 2012
Run
I want to see Jesus. Every day, in every step.
"I desire nothing besides You.."
My heart lurches, stumbles, and falls. Everything within me cries, "Run!! Run away from this pain, this confusion, this doubt. Run and run and run till the wind dries your tears and the silence stills your fears. Run away from smiles that mock your tears. Run and drown, and make not a sound".
So I run. With all my heart I run, as far away as I can go. A voice calls and beckons me on. "Run!" it cries. "Run and run and run, straight into My arms. Run until My love dries your tears and My peace stills your fears. Run to My smiles that wipe away your tears. Run and drown, in the blood of the Lamb that made not a sound".
As I sob into His arms, I hear Him say, "Dear one, can you not see? It was my grace that made you run."
Startled, I realize. It was all a gift. "Father, that evil, you meant it for good?"
"Everything is good, my dear child, because it's from ME".
The tree of the knowledge of good and evil was never meant for me. Who am I to judge the difference?
I feel like a child, humbled and confused. "God, which one is evil, and which is good?"
"All from My hand, that is what is good" He says with a smile.
So oftentimes I think that beauty is only in the end. I watch the flowers fade and die, thinking that beauty has ended. But in reality, it has just begun.
I watch my walking, tripping and falling and think "Oh for the day, when my walk is soon done. When I can look in His face, and know we have won".
But then I know I wouldn't trade it for a moment. For there is so much beauty in this process, this journey of mine.
I don't have enough. Not enough time or energy or strength or love. But I have Him, and He is enough.
I see Him in the garden, drops of blood running down His face. Crying to His Father, "I don't want to do this!" Knowing what it would mean. Yet in the midst of His cries, He died, "Not my will but Yours be done".
His will is so much better. So in awe I stand, in wonder at His love, overwhelmed by His grace. "His mercies are new every morning, great is His faithfulness"
"I desire nothing besides You.."
My heart lurches, stumbles, and falls. Everything within me cries, "Run!! Run away from this pain, this confusion, this doubt. Run and run and run till the wind dries your tears and the silence stills your fears. Run away from smiles that mock your tears. Run and drown, and make not a sound".
So I run. With all my heart I run, as far away as I can go. A voice calls and beckons me on. "Run!" it cries. "Run and run and run, straight into My arms. Run until My love dries your tears and My peace stills your fears. Run to My smiles that wipe away your tears. Run and drown, in the blood of the Lamb that made not a sound".
As I sob into His arms, I hear Him say, "Dear one, can you not see? It was my grace that made you run."
Startled, I realize. It was all a gift. "Father, that evil, you meant it for good?"
"Everything is good, my dear child, because it's from ME".
The tree of the knowledge of good and evil was never meant for me. Who am I to judge the difference?
I feel like a child, humbled and confused. "God, which one is evil, and which is good?"
"All from My hand, that is what is good" He says with a smile.
So oftentimes I think that beauty is only in the end. I watch the flowers fade and die, thinking that beauty has ended. But in reality, it has just begun.
I watch my walking, tripping and falling and think "Oh for the day, when my walk is soon done. When I can look in His face, and know we have won".
But then I know I wouldn't trade it for a moment. For there is so much beauty in this process, this journey of mine.
I don't have enough. Not enough time or energy or strength or love. But I have Him, and He is enough.
I see Him in the garden, drops of blood running down His face. Crying to His Father, "I don't want to do this!" Knowing what it would mean. Yet in the midst of His cries, He died, "Not my will but Yours be done".
His will is so much better. So in awe I stand, in wonder at His love, overwhelmed by His grace. "His mercies are new every morning, great is His faithfulness"
Sunday, January 8, 2012
SLAVE
You were called to this... utter and ultimate slavery. The day you accepted Christ as Lord, "you became slaves.." (Romans 6:18). The Master is waiting, calling you to obey. Instead you are bristling on the inside, defensively fighting against His commands. "What about freedom?" you cry.
The word slave brings up pictures of torture, humiliation, and despair. The very thought is revolting, especially to those who live in the land of the free. Why would we ever subjugate ourselves to such tyranny??
Yet the gospel bids us come, for only in slavery will we ever find freedom.
What a beautiful picture the gospel of Jesus Christ paints! We were once in darkness, shackled to the chains of our own desires. There was no freedom - only a submission to the powers of darkness that reigned over our souls. Headlong we plunged; the grave our only end.
But our Maker saved us! Thrust upon a cross, with blood running down His back, his cry rang in victory over the powers of darkness, "Tetelestai!" It is finished. He came to set the captives free, and rose to lead them home to victory.
Because the slaves of Christ will one day reign as kings.
The gospel of Christ is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us it is the POWER of God.
What if Christ had set us free to our own whims and desires the day we surrended our wills to His? Slaves do not know how to live as freeman. We have no strength, no ability to live on our own. If He did not lead and guide us, how would we know the way?
Sanctification is the redemption of slaves, every single day. He has not left us to figure it out on our own. Instead, He humbles us and guides us, teaching us what it means to live free.
True freedom is the way of righteousness.
Sin battles against us, trying to claim His place in our lives. But our God is a jealous God! He will not let us succumb to the desires that will enslave us; No, He disciplines us until we finally understand... there is no freedom without Christ.
Therefore, "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness... and all these things shall be added until you".
And that is why Paul boldly proclaimed himself as.. "Paul, a SLAVE of Christ"
He got it.
Do you?
The word slave brings up pictures of torture, humiliation, and despair. The very thought is revolting, especially to those who live in the land of the free. Why would we ever subjugate ourselves to such tyranny??
Yet the gospel bids us come, for only in slavery will we ever find freedom.
What a beautiful picture the gospel of Jesus Christ paints! We were once in darkness, shackled to the chains of our own desires. There was no freedom - only a submission to the powers of darkness that reigned over our souls. Headlong we plunged; the grave our only end.
But our Maker saved us! Thrust upon a cross, with blood running down His back, his cry rang in victory over the powers of darkness, "Tetelestai!" It is finished. He came to set the captives free, and rose to lead them home to victory.
Because the slaves of Christ will one day reign as kings.
The gospel of Christ is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us it is the POWER of God.
What if Christ had set us free to our own whims and desires the day we surrended our wills to His? Slaves do not know how to live as freeman. We have no strength, no ability to live on our own. If He did not lead and guide us, how would we know the way?
Sanctification is the redemption of slaves, every single day. He has not left us to figure it out on our own. Instead, He humbles us and guides us, teaching us what it means to live free.
True freedom is the way of righteousness.
Sin battles against us, trying to claim His place in our lives. But our God is a jealous God! He will not let us succumb to the desires that will enslave us; No, He disciplines us until we finally understand... there is no freedom without Christ.
Therefore, "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness... and all these things shall be added until you".
And that is why Paul boldly proclaimed himself as.. "Paul, a SLAVE of Christ"
He got it.
Do you?
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