I am not sure we all have burning bush experiences, the likes of Moses, but I know some things seem to shine in my mind that stir my heart. Things that make me wonder and cause me to stop and consider.
Are we called to do things bigger than ourselves?
I am an idealist when I sit and write about my dreams. Yet the work to achieve anything good- a dream, a good relationship, a good life- is not formed in ideal circumstances.
A beautiful tree did not grow in ideal conditions. A song, a work of art, or a book was not produced in perfect conditions.
A relationship that lasts a lifetime is not because of all the right circumstances.
I am learning this. I realize I would like to run or even ignore difficult situations and conversations. We want the end result now, but I know that is not how it works.
It’s easy to sit, think and write about what you want, which is good. But know there will be friction and difficulties when you set out to reach them. Don’t let that crush your dreams.
A piece of pottery or hand-turned wood products did not come with ease. There was shaping, carving and much friction to become that piece that carries a weight of glory.
So when I put down this pen, I know I’ll be greeted by conflicts and decisions. Endurance and doing the hard thing will be required. A life well lived is not done on the sidelines. A life well lived is one of ups and downs. A life well lived finds a secret place, a secret place of strength.
I have found a secret place, and it’s there I have weathered many storms. When difficulties come, or things are complicated, and I would like to run, I discover the Lord gives courage, love and grace.
I know I have not achieved or have everything I will be, nor are you. I see my mistakes, and yet, “a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again.” I am not just on my own merit, but I am just because of Him for the “just shall live by faith.” I rise up because He raises me up and “makes my feet like the fee of deer, and sets me on my high places.”
It’s there in my weakness I discover His strength and a life well lived.