Finding Beauty in Our Brokenness
We can all relate to that feeling of falling apart at the seams, can we? Especially when life throws us curveballs that we weren't expecting. But here's the thing: God can still use us to make beautiful music even when we feel like we’re falling to pieces.
Take the grand old pipe organ in one of our small town chapels, for example. It’s been around longer than anyone can remember, and unfortunately, it's seen better days. The coolness and dampness of the Welsh air have taken their toll. So much so that during a recent service, some of the keys literally fell off while the organist was playing! Talk about a disaster, right? I’m glad I wasn’t playing!!!
Shining Through the Shadows
In Wales, the sun is very hit-and-miss, especially during the long winter months. Just this morning, I noticed the blue skies and bright sun and made plans to do a little work outside. I went out and checked on my lawn chair, which was surprisingly dry. Then, I went back in to finish the chore I was in the middle of, with plans to go outside and enjoy the weather as soon as I was finished. A few minutes later, I donned my sweater, grabbed my laptop, and headed outside. Unfortunately, by then, the sun was hiding beneath several layers of gray clouds, and the wind had picked up, giving the air a damp chill. I waited a few minutes to see if the clouds and winds would pass. They didn't. So, I grabbed my stuff and went back inside, lamenting the fact that, once again, I had just missed the sun.
The Limitless Grace of God
Have you ever felt the pressure of limitations? In my writing world, it's all about word counts. Many software programs I use offer a specific number of words for a set monthly charge. If I run over my allotted limit, I have to pay extra (sometimes, a lot extra). Therefore, I regularly check my word counters like a nervous bank account holder, ensuring I haven't overdrawn my monthly linguistic budget. It's a constant dance of creativity and calculation.
Thankfully, God doesn't operate on a word count system. There's no divine limit on His love, patience, or grace. We won't find a heavenly dashboard flashing "Overdraft" when we stumble or mess up.
Navigating Life's Storms One Wave at a Time
I'm currently knee-deep in deadlines, surrounded by a sea of writing projects with waves of words crashing over me like a relentless storm. In these moments, my mind is drawn back to Peter as he walked on the water. Yes, I know I just did an entire series of devotions about this particular event, but bear with me as we look at another angle of Peter’s sinking desperation.
Traditionally, we view Peter's conflict with the sea as a warning against losing faith when he looked at the storm instead of keeping his gaze on Jesus. And while that’s true, there's another angle worth exploring, especially when our to-do lists feel as vast as the ocean.
Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 6
As we navigate the storms of life, it's essential to remember that just because we face trials doesn't mean we're out of God's will. The disciples were exactly where Jesus had commanded them to be, yet they encountered a tempestuous sea.
The story also highlights the significance of trusting God's character and promises when we can't see Him working. Often, Jesus operates behind the scenes, diligently working all things for our good and His glory.