Awake

The dryer is humming, and my sweet husband is putting away the groceries that just arrived at the front door. What did we do before grocery delivery? A fire is dancing in the fireplace, and I am letting my mind wander in the midst of this sweet domesticity. The stuff of life has a way of comforting me, and I find my heart swelling with gratitude. Maybe it is the heightened awareness of little things that comes on the heels of an extended illness. I’m so very glad to be present and able to attend after being brought low where everything seemed to be just too much trouble. It feels good to be alive.

My mom sent me a text yesterday. Simply, it read, “The sunshine makes me happy.” I think she knew I’d be in a place to appreciate that innocent delight of existence. Being. The ability to be touched and moved by the life within and around.

Now that energy is stirring, I find a reluctance to rush around and try to revive what had languished. Rather I want to wait in this place of awareness for the Lord to address my awakened mind. He has my attention, and I want no distractions.

“Follow Me.” “Abide in Me.” “Walk with Me.” “Find in Me all your heart desires.” He really does want my company. How marvelous. And more, He is offering to enlarge my heart to include all the rest of His family. “I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10b NASB)

This abundant life is full of promise and hope, and it is this abundance we bring into all our relationships. Where there is conflict, irritation, and self-interest, we offer mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our hearts. Where there is joy and gladness, we respond with rejoicing and thanksgiving.

And that is what my response to Him is today. Joy and gladness, thanksgiving and praise.

“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with jubilation;
Come before Him with rejoicing.
Know that the Lord Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving,
And His courtyards with praise.
Give thanks to Him, bless His name.
For the Lord is good;
His mercy is everlasting
And His faithfulness is to all generations.” (Psalm 100 NASB)

Until next week, beloved, awaken to His love for you and be in love with Him.