paravanes:meditations

Choosing to become one of us, like us even for a trickle of time (33 years) was the deepest expression of loving care and solidarity.  When we cry, he knows the stinging sensation in our eyes before the tears fall.  When we stand next to the grave of a loved one, he knows the loss we feel.  When we celebrate at a wedding or dinner party, he knows the joy of our laughter and happiness.  When we are alone and abandoned, he knows the pain of our alienation.  When we are challenged by evil and destructive energies, he knows the resolve we must hold to overcome.  Hebrews 4:14-16 "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are tempted -yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that ...

Thank you, Lord God, for... ...courage to leave toxic (not just difficult) people and situations, humility to see myself honestly, willingness to forgive others as you have forgiven me, wisdom to "judge not, lest I be judged." These are your gifts to me. I accept them with gratitude. Amen.

Jesus Christ, Christ the King, requires the ultimate loyalty of our lives: beyond the loyalty we offer to family, children, friends, institutions, employers, political figures, ideas, philosophies, or our desires and wishes. Our loyalty proves, demonstrates, and strengthens our understanding of Jesus Christ as Lord.

Any meaningful conversation we have with God about our life's direction and purpose is based on the truth of: 1. God knowing more than we know and 2. God loving us more than we love ourselves. Begin with these thoughts in mind. This is the God you are opening your heart, mind, and soul to. Amen.