We gathered in a church basement in Hopkins, Minnesota, reminding each other of God’s promises. We laughed and dug into God’s Word and celebrated the gift we receive just by being with other women – Sisters in Spirit, each of us in different places on our journey to know God better.
The lovely faces of these women reminded me of God’s extraordinary ability to create exquisite beauty. Their hearts reminded me of God’s faithfulness.
When we moved to the sanctuary for worship, we were reminded of God’s presence in every part of our lives, and how our connection with each other matters. While the sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows and the worship team led us with their voices and sweet harmony, pastors praying blessings over us, I felt a refreshing presence of Jesus.
As I sat and absorbed the sacred moment of sharing the bread and the wine, I felt it in my heart …
God’s presence is always. We experience His love and faithfulness in every part of our day.
We will see it if we pay attention – to the faces, the moments, the music, the sharing, the sunshine, the laughter.
Earlier we’d looked at the words written by the prophet Jeremiah in Lamentations 3:22-23.
“God’s loyal love couldn’t have run out, his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great your faithfulness!” (MSG)
Oh, friend. Read those words again and let their message sink in: His mercies are new every morning! He never leaves; His love for us never dries up.
Every single day we have the opportunity – the gift – of walking with Him. Getting to know Him better. Knowing and experiencing his unconditional love.
Jeremiah’s words remind me of another great prophet, Hosea, who teaches us so much about HOPE and RESTORATION:
“As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” (Hosea 6:3)
Those words wash over me and catch my breath. God makes all things new. He brings refreshment to every part of me – body, mind, soul, emotions, spirit.
During our time together that morning, I shared the words below that I’d written a few months ago.
I pray they will encourage your heart today and invite you to get to know this star-hanging, life-breathing God even better. (As one of my favorite Bible teachers and authors, Susie Larson, says, “He is closer than your next breath.”)
It’s a New Day
It’s a new day today. I created it for you! I painted the sunrise and lifted it over the horizon to remind you that there are good things waiting for you. I am ready to give you everything you need today to experience joy and hope and peace.
When good things happen to you, I will celebrate with you.
When the tears come, I will wipe them away and whisper words of hope in your ear.
And if the sadness and frustration get overwhelming, know that I am sitting right next to you, holding your hand.
As you walk through today, don’t ever forget how much I love you. More than you can even imagine.
God always shows up – as surely as the sun rises.
This page contains an Amazon affiliate link to Susie Larson’s new book, “Closer Than Your Next Breath: Where is God When You Need Him Most? It’s so very, very good.
If you purchase this book through this link, your cost will be the same, but I may receive a small commission. I only link to books and products I personally love.
