I have been grappling with many things in the past week and half. From confusing co-worker relationships to what to do next in life to what is my calling and how can I be more Christ-like. None of these might I add, are simple tasks to grapple with. But God is once again proving to me that His plan is grander than I can expect and I should just let Him take-over.
Today's devotional talks about loving our neighbors- which is the greatest commandment from our Father, yet also it seems to be the most difficult. God must have known that it would be a tricky one.
"To love 'your neighbor as yourself' (Luke 10:27) requires the same urgent kind of love. It’s a love that notices the need of another person and won’t rest until it’s been met. It’s a gentle, tender love that thinks and acts carefully. It’s the sacrificial and compassionate love that a nameless Samaritan had for a fallen traveler. It’s the kind of love God wants to share with your neighbors through you. — Joe Stowell"
I find it easy to focus on MY problems and turn my prayers into self-centered ones. But God is at work and constantly reminding me that there is more to life than just my problems. We did arts and crafts this week at a church and in the women's restroom was a devotional for the day. I was curious to read it and it just happened to be the words I needed for that day. With a simple phrase repeated several times, "Let Go, Let God". Just let go off all the burdens from work, relationships, etc. and let God handle things. After all, He is the Master planner and knows what is going on. I think I can trust Him!! But it was just a gentle reminder that I needed.
I have also found it refreshing to say little one sentence prayers on my way to work. Even just a simple "Lord, give me strength for today"- seems to really help and the past few days at work have been excellent. I have always known that attitude means everything, but when you put it into action and go to work with a positive and energetic attitude-- the day is sooo much better!! I felt like I was connecting with participants and just having a plain good time!! God is indeed good!
In the call to remember our neighbors, I feel it appropriate to remember those affected in Haiti. As well as the violence and unrest occurring in Nigeria (as some of you may have heard- my uncle and aunt and their family are living in Jos- and there is currently a lot of destruction and violence going on between Christians and Muslims). My heart is heavy for all of those who are dealing with natural disasters or unrest. So many lives lost- so much destruction, disease. And so difficult to understand what our role is and what can be done. I pray for peace and understanding; for food, water, shelter, and medical assistance; and protection. May God's love transcend and transform bad to good.
I have a challenge for myself in this new year: to be Christ-like to those around and especially those I work with. I am reminded that "You cannot touch your neighbor’s heart with anything less than your own." And that is what I will be striving to do.
Are you with me?
Peace,
Lindsey
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