Monday, November 26, 2007

My dear God,

I look backwards and see your footprints. In the sands of time I see our footprints side by side. I smile, feeling the warmth of your spirit inside me. I see the great benefit of obedience, following your will.

I haven't had three days like these in more years than I can remember. I see the rewards of the desert mountain experience. Nothing pleases me more than pleasing you. My goal: faithfulness to you. My experience: faithfulness to you. My heart lives in your joy.

I continue to feel free, free and light as a bird. I don't feel the oppressive feelings that kept me burdened down. I feel free, light as a bird. My mind is not swirling with thoughts that hold me captive. I've let them go like a withered leaf picked up by the wind.

I realize again how faith holds us, keeps us going during difficult times. I understand how vast is your love that embraces us when we feel like a forgotten doll. I see too your patience, your long-suffering patience that puts up with someone like me who holds on to pain sometimes, refuses to let go. I know your mercy that floods my soul. I think it was mercy tears that flowed in the desert.

I'm living in thanksgiving, not so much for all you have given me that came from the desire of my heart, but rather for holding me during the trials and tribulations. I can see now how I clinged. You never wearied of my grabbing hold and hanging on. I'll never forget it. I will carry it as a treasure every day of my life. And my gratitude will always bubble over.

And so I'm simply saying, "thank you." Thank you, Lord, for it all. The grace that forgave me, the mercy that anointed me, the love that held me, the joy that filled me, the peace that swept over me. Thank you.

"I love you, Lord,
and I lift my voice
to worship you,
O my soul rejoice.
Take joy my king
in what I bring.
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
in your ear."
The words to this song
bespeaks my gratitude,
my feelings.
Take the gifts I offer
remembering each one
comes from you.

Love, Andrea