Greetings to you…sheep of His pasture…in the name of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ – THE Risen Savior! Another beautiful morning in the Kingdom…and another opportunity to say – This is the day that the Lord has made and we are going to rejoice and be glad in it! What a delight to watch God’s creation come alive after the winter season…hope surely, travels on Spring’s breezes. This morning I will be praying for you, asking Father to be the lifter of your head and to be the restorer of your soul.
This morning in my devotions it happened again! It seems that every reading and reference spoke the same theme – God’s presence! As I pondered that I went on a little side trail…a Holy Spirit adventure! I started with a favorite quote…when asked what she said to God in prayer, Mother Teresa said, “Nothing, I just listen.” And what does God say to you, she responded, “Nothing, He just listens.” Next I recall the encounters of men and women who entertained His presence…their conversations and the impact of God’s presence on their lives.
And did you know that there are at least 4269 songs and choruses that express the significance of, desire for, effect of, and the power of God’s presence…”Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place!” – can you remember singing/praying that? Or how about…”In the presence of Jehovah-God Almighty, Prince of Peace-Troubles vanish, hearts are mended-In the Presence of the Mighty King!” Or what about…”Be still for the presence of the Lord is in this place-I can feel His mighty power and His grace!” Or maybe…”Sitting at the feet of Jesus” or “I come to the garden alone!”
One of the significant aspects of finding yourself in God’s presence s that you don’t have to ask Him for anything, you don’t have to beg or bargain or demand. Actually, you seem to understand that this moment is not about the fact that God is “omnipresent” – always present everywhere” but that He is “here!” It is a sacramental presence…and God communicates with our heart without speaking a word and yet we understand His communication. I know that this sort of experience does not happen on a regular basis…but I am glad that does at just the right time. For me, I appreciate the cry of the Psalmist…”Thy face I seek!” and I read that King David spent hours sitting in God’s presence.
Even as I write these words…a hunger is stirring in my soul and there is a thirst in my spirit – and Jesus said, “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for a right relationship for they will be satisfied.”
Something to ponder…be blessed!