I listened to stories, laughed with family and had some of the best food in my life. Fellowship is absolutely one of the most wonderful things this life has to offer. It made me think of the disciples sitting at a camp site recounting their day, laughing and thanking God for miracles.
We laughed about all kinds of things this week, we embraced our traditions and we spread love. Not human love but Godly love. The kind only God can give through His mighty spirit! You know when that love is being poured out because everyone is feeling deep connection. We were feeling so connected that Mark poured His heart out last night and in his confession I heard his deep pain. For a moment, I was struck with the feeling that this can't be happening and then I listened to what he was saying and realized how vital it is to make amends as parents but more importantly as people.
Pain can create immense feelings of anger and on some levels rage. It eats at us from the inside out and makes us say and do things we don't mean. Those intense feelings can push people away and leave you feeling empty and alone. Our feelings can't be our guide. We must ask Jesus to be what our parents couldn't be. Actually, we need to ask Jesus to fill the gaps in all of our relationships. Feeling unwanted will destroy you. Embracing Jesus will comfort you and enlighten you. Not everyone gets to have great patents, spouses or friends. It's really up to us to seek Jesus. He will fill our hearts with acceptance, love and peace.
I heard my aunt say yesterday that part of her reaction to religion was her feelings toward being a sinner. Regardless of what you believe, we all are sinners. That doesn't mean we are horrible creatures. What it means is that since the fall of Adam and Eve, every human has a sinful nature. I believe it and I live my life with that knowledge. It grounds me because then I know how much God truly loves us all.
I wish I could paint this life differently; I'm sure Jesus did too. Why do you think a man gave His life for you? There isn't a reason in the world I would give my life for thousands of mean people. And yet, God gave His life for me. Humbling, don't you think?
This week has reminded me that love never ends. We had several generations in the room and once again I was reminded that we are the keepers of the next generation. If you do nothing in this life, give the gift of Jesus. Talk about what He means to you, embrace His love and pray for the broken hearted. They are everywhere. I loved showing Him this week. Like a great light, my heart was lit up, pronouncing His name!
Worship, fellowship and pray for God's hand. We are the keepers of the next generation. Be well my sisters and know the love of Jesus. If you don't know Him and you would like to investigate who Jesus was and is, go to a pastor or search the web. You can find all kinds of information about Jesus. The best place to find Him is in a Bible. Their is a great app called the Bible app. It translates te Bible in many languages. He's worth the time; I promise.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:1-7 NIV)