THANKFUL

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Good morning, Jesus.

The time we spend with you, Jesus, is never wasted. But finding a quiet place in our mind to spend time with you presents a challenge. When will the noise and clatter around us cease? Before we know it, this busyness culture hampers our time with you. Those with children know how our little ones need and deserve our attention, so quiet times are a rarity. Unless we’re fortunate to have a corner office with a view, where we can shut the door and have assistants keep the world out, finding quiet in the workplace is unheard of. Although your Spirit is constantly with us, Jesus, we need uninterrupted moments alone to converse with you, as a child with their loving Father. Who can refresh our souls, alters our perspectives to realign with your values and principles, and increases our faith, but you?  You strengthen our heart to face, without anxiety, whatever the day may bring. But most important, like a loving father, you long to spend time with us. You desire our company and trust, since you know how prone we are to worry and fear. Most Christ-followers share this common struggle. Show us how to carve out time for you, Jesus. Help us make this a priority. For our spiritual wellbeing, for our peace of mind, burn into our spirits the truths of Philippians 4:6–7: “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape you worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life” (MSG).

May we not grow lax to pray for our dear friends and loved ones who face medical mountains they cannot face alone. Your Spirit sustains them in their darkest hours, and you join the celebration and party when your healing renews their bodies and spirits. And when the circumstances don’t change as fast as we want, your Spirit strengthens their resolve to stay the faith-course, never to doubt. Your peace and presence guard their hearts and faith.

Treasuring our time with you, Jesus. Amen.