“In Christ, we are not held to a standard of perfection—we are held close by His arms of Grace. And there is no greater relief to be found in all the world: There is always more grace in Christ than there is guilt in us.” Ann Voskamp
These timely words arrived to my heart this morning via twitter. Some would say just how frivolous this social media technology is as others can easily expound on some of its beauty. Instead of inviting critical thinking here, wonder if God can really use it, silly it, for the edification and strengthening of His children?
“Lord, You have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.” Psalm 90:1
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’ ” Psalm 91:1-2
“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11
As I hung up the phone this morning with a dear friend battling stage four cancer, my heart just plain ole hurt.
My boy leaves today to begin his sophomore year at Ole Miss; and today he will leave behind a mom and dad along with two adoring brothers (at times) and a little Maltipoo, Sallie! I hate goodbyes; but I love hellos. There’s just something rather anxiety provoking about the goodbyes. It’s the “what-lies-ahead.” It’s the “not-going-with.” It’s the letting go and trusting him to grow. It’s the not needing me so much anymore. It’s the grieving of not having him home with whom to laugh, to be, and to engage. It’s just a part of our family leaves today and with the departure comes the realization, that change is here. It is not around the corner but right here.
“It’s another lung collapse; in fact, it is the worst one yet. Come with me to look at the scan! I’m not sure who your thoracic physician thinks he is, but he cannot operate on that lung. You will lose part of your lung, your entire lung, or your life!” A pulmonologist
“Come unto Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30″
“I, the Lord do not change….” Malachi 3:6
“…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior….” Isaiah 43:31-3
Life is a series of transitions. Transitions from picking up toys and cheerios to arranging carpools. From one job to the next. From one crisis to another. From getting out of shape to committing to being back in that gym. From cooking and cleaning to enjoying time with friends and family. From slower days of summer to new beginnings of the school year.