THANKFUL

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Good morning, Jesus

Lord God, we’ll never quit knocking, praying, asking for our prodigal loved ones to come to their senses. You are standing at the open door, looking to the horizon, expecting them to come home. For whatever reasons, they left to do their own thing, to be the supreme authority over their lives. Human nature never changes, regardless of the era of time. Placing one’s self on the throne of our heart leaves the door open for deception and disappointment. Once the illusion of a perfect life miserably comes to a dead end and they come to their senses, realize their mistakes and desire to change, you remove every obstacle attempting to block the road on their way home. When they come into your sight, you throw wide open the doors of your storehouse of grace to wash away the guilt and shame of their foolish choices. Oh, the comfort and peace of being washed clean, forgiven of sin’s stains. Inexpressible joy floods our souls to see you bring the dead back to life, like you did for me when I finally came to my senses.

Be close to the brokenhearted of those who have lost loved ones recently. Much has been said of the death of Kobe Bryant, the famous basketball legend, who leaves a legacy of many accomplishments. But just as important to you is the loss of that beloved father, mother, brother or sister, aunt or uncle whose names we will never know. Most grievous is the loss of a precious child, taken before life could be lived to the fullest. But know all who have transitioned from this life to their eternal home leave a legacy of influence to others. May we leave a legacy of unselfish love and faith in you. Help us make a priority of never letting a day go by that we do not tell our family and friends how much we and God loves them.

Forgive our sins. Heal our nation. Teach us how to love you, Lord God, with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. And help us love and forgive ourselves so we can love neighbors as ourselves.

Thankful we can always come home, Jesus. Amen.