God's grace

Many times in life, we are touched by God's grace and love and walk blindly by without thinking. Sometimes it's hard in this life to step back and look at life from more than just a superficial glance. Extraordinary discoveries can make us stop and smell the roses and it's a shame that it can be only the in the face of uncertainty that we are drawn closer to that which we know exists for us daily.

It was said to me once that in the confronting sorrow, one can be led to a greater relationship with thy Savior. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever your face trials of many kinds" (Jam.1:2)" Yes, in pain and trials we can rejoice through the knowledge that we are saved and that nothing comes upon us except for that which passes through the Lord's hands first.

My hope for myself, my loved ones and any other family members in the brotherhood of Christ is that without sorrows we can consider our journey to be one of pure joy! That we will find that joy in the face of everyday activities and experiencing everyday life. Let it not be the sorrow and unknown be that which drives us onward to draw near to the Lord, but let it be the joy of watching your child pick a bouquet of clover to gift to you as the most beautiful group of flowers you have ever seen because of the love and purity of the gift from the heart of a child. Find that closeness in the Lord by marveling at a sunset and remembering that the Lord created all that is in this world in just seven days and that we are created in his image! Find that drive to draw near to the Lord not out of uncertainty and pain; although this can truthfully test the strength of your faith, but draw near just to draw near because ultimately that is the intimate relationship that the Lord desires to have with us on a daily basis.

I pray for all that I know that are suffering with sickness, discontent and other trials for strength, wisdom, peace and grace for this is the Lord's ultimate plan although its purpose is not clear at this moment. I pray in pure joy for all that I know that have an intimate and passionate relationship with the Lord - may you continue to build and expand your love for Him and be a beacon of light to all that you come into contact with so that others may find the peace and joy in living a life in the Lord's way!