Reception, Never Rejection

I always wanted to “be picked,” especially in elementary school. It was always on the playground for group games. I’d raise my hand, “Pick me, pick me.” It was such a downer when it was so clear that I was not “the favorite.” It hurt deep down. We can hurt deep down and feel left out in life by others and can even hurt deep down and “feel” rejected by the Lord. Yet, rejection isn’t in His vocabulary. RECEPTION is His language. He “picked us,” before we picked Him. (Romans 5:8-9) This is a good to remember. Whether we’ve been walking a while with the Lord, have walked away from Him or desire to walk toward Him. The Lord wants … Continue readingReception, Never Rejection

Worth 1,000 Words

Study this picture and let it wash over you. Notice the sheep. He’s dirty, looks sad and beaten down. Definitely lost. How long has he been traveling with no companion? Did he forget the way home? Is he hungry? Afraid? Is he about to lay down and give up? What thoughts rush in? Look in the backdrop. Just over his shoulder. His rescue is on the way. “The Good Shepherd” sees him and has come to scoop him up. Will He place the sheep on His shoulders? Will He embrace him in his dirtiness? Will He then take him home and wash him white? Will He assure him, feed him and rejoice over him? Yes, He will. Yes. It’s Jesus. … Continue readingWorth 1,000 Words

Vulnerability Yields Victory

Vulnerability in Miriam’s dictionary is defined as weak and unprotected with a result that could easily hurt, but this is a worldly definition. In God’s kingdom, it’s the opposite. When we spill out the whole of who we are and what is stirring in our hearts and minds, we can enter into victory. Jesus invites us to be vulnerable. To come humbly and to admit we need help. “I didn’t come for the well,” Jesus said. (Mark 2:17) Pretending everything is fine won’t deliver us into victory. He binds up the broken-hearted, heals our deepest wounds and revives us soul deep as we draw near to Him in sincerity and transparency. He invites us to live life naked in His … Continue readingVulnerability Yields Victory