Thursday, December 28, 2023

Rest

Mom would say it when I was sick

maybe with a hand on my forehead.

Something you long for when pushing through 

a full day, or week, or year.


But there's a deeper meaning than just physical.

Rest can be mental and spiritual.

A mind that is racing with worry and fear,

regret, and self-loathing.

A spirit that feels forgotten by God,

or worse, unloved by Him.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened."

Unloved by Him?

These are His words.

Jesus is the friend who comes along side the weary soul

and offers help; 

offers a solution.

"Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

He offers a solution.

When I'm tired, it's generally 

because I haven't taken Him up on this sweet offer.

Our humble, gentle hearted friend,

who longs to labor with us

who longs for us to learn from Him,

still makes the invitation.


Shalom dear friends!

"Today when you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts"


Monday, January 2, 2023

The Alter

Father,
I lay my addictions 
before you today.
Help me with fleshly 
distractions and hungers.

Phone
shopping
news
social media
alcohol
fried foods
sweet treats
caffeine

Father, 
help me to bring my attraction,
and magnetism of soul
to your alter, 
and release them to you.
Surely I was set free to walk in freedom.

I want to be sparked into 
the flame of action
by your Spirit alone.
I want o rest in the peace of gratitude
and rejoice in the 
God of my salvation 
alone.
I want to love you 
with all of my heart
all of my soul
all of my strength
all of my time
all of my money
all of my attention.

God, I want to love you with all 
that is within me,
and all at my disposal
for your glory 
and for my joy.