Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Even when

I'm currently reading The Promise by Father Jonathan Morris.

In his first chapter approaching the subject of suffering he makes the point that sometimes trials make us better people, that we grow through the experiences.  He then observes that other times it's impossible to find proportion between what we've gained and lost.  Morris then makes this statement:

"True faith believes in God's love even when God chooses not to intervene."

Isn't that the age old choice?  To trust God even when we don't have children, or don't get the job, or lose the job, or lose the spouse or child - when the situation doesn't turn out right.  When nothing we could learn through the experience could ever compensate for the pain and loss.

Sometimes life is like that.  Then what?

Photo from http://edgechurchaurora.com
I'm reminded of the words of James, the pillar of the early Christian church:

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.
James 1:2-4 (MSG)

That phrase "under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors" comes into bearing here.  I struggle with selfishness.  I almost always want things to be my way.

But I want to be a person who believes in God, who trusts Him.  Even when He chooses not to intervene.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Missing

Sometimes I miss it
not because meaning is hidden between the lines,
but because my head is in a different place
and I don't understand.
Seems like others caught what I missed.
Big things are happening,
all centered around the theme
of the meaning I missed.
I feel stupid
and I hate it.

Disconnected.

I can't feel anything
stronger than the gratitude that overwhelms me,
because even when I'm dumb
and disconnected,
You still want me.
You still draw me to you.
In You I have
hope amidst my darkness.

Connected.

You bring purpose
even to those who aren't the best and brightest,
people like me.
Photo from http://www.ivanshaw.com
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