Thursday, March 12, 2015

Dear God,

Middle of the night encounters remind us you never rest, leave us, or stop caring.  Another difficult family conversation caused us much pain and sorrow.  When my husband left our bed because he couldn't sleep I found myself angry at those who hurt him.  Giving in to angry thoughts you swiftly caused me to stop when you said, "Language, there is only one language, the language of love."  I realized faith does not take a hiatus when storms come instead faith does its greatest work.

The language of love.  Who are we if we are not lovers of those you love?  People may hurt us.  They may cause us great suffering but how can we call ourselves lovers of the gospel if we do not return love in the midst of injustice?  That does not mean you want us to be mats people can walk on or kick at.  You want us to remain solid in our values and philosophy of life.  You want us to forgive, to be grace at its best, and to rise to the highest levels of faithfulness.  You teach us how to strengthen ourselves for stormy seas.  You give us insight and wisdom, courage and fortitude, and mercy and compassion.  You provide us with eyes to see below the surface.  You give us yourself so we may follow your will finding peace, hope, and joy.

Oh Lord,
sadness is deep.
Hurt is
deeper yet.
Make us
faithful disciples
worthy of
your name,
I pray.

Love, Andrea