It's a Heart Thing – Unthinkable Circumstances

I “get” that thought.  I’ve always felt a little “different” than most of those around me. That’s hard when you grow up in a very small community where there isn’t much variety in people. But I know now it’s not because I was “different” than them. I just learned earlier than most of them that this is not my home, not really.  My heart is sold out on Jesus. And now that I’ve experience a tiny, tiny bit of his suffering through the death of our son-in-law, grief of our daughter, depression and adultery of my husband, moving away from our  ministry and friends, my priorities are solidified. It doesn’t really matter what it takes to get us there but we need to experience God’s love, forgiveness, grace and faithfulness. Once we do there is the same. Nothing is better than spending time in His presence and then sharing Him with others. The best way to share with others is to be real. To be His hands, feet and maybe most importantly His ears. People need to be heard. That is showing them love. They don’t care if you have “the answer”. They just need to know that someone heard them. Someone heard their heart, not just listened a moment, said “there, there” quoted a verse and said “I’ll pray for you.” They need a hug, possibly tears or help packing their boxes or finding a ride to the hospital or grocery store. When they are ready to really hear the reason behind your actions, you’ll know it. They usually ask.

These days I don’t participate in as many activities as I used to, Church stuff or otherwise. I am getting to know my co-workers better. I’m listening more and talking less. (I know that’s hard for some of you to believe but it’s true!) I spend daily time with my Lord and Savior. I know I will never be completely content until I meet Jesus face to face. In the meantime this is an amazing life He has given me to live even though it’s not exactly the way I pictured it. It’s a heart thing.