The daily work of the Father is full of surprises. This weekend we were surprised by a special visit from our kids, Josh and Amy. Early Easter morning, I stole a few moments right at sun rise for alone time with Papa. We were sitting on the deck when the sun slowly rose over the horizon dawning the day of remembrance of our Savior's redeeming life. The birds sang. It was totally an experience of Papa's love and goodness.
The day continued with time of sharing with Josh and Amy. Then we headed off to worship and celebration. Anticipation was running high on Easter Sunday. (I pray that same anticipation runs through me each day) Finally, we returned home to gather around the table with warm conversation and laughter. I think Jesus enjoyed the day with us too. I know that I certainly enjoyed the showering of His goodness on me.
Today dawns with hope. It is a hope that rests in the one who is seated at the right hand of the Father, our Savior Jesus. This hope is not dependent on my ability. If it were then I would be in huge trouble. This hope is built on Jesus, His love, His power, and His humility. The words of the sermon still ring in my ear, when absolute power converges with amazing humility we find someone to whom we are drawn. Incredibly, God entrusts us to carry out His purpose with the same power and asks us to surrender in humility to the role of a servant.
At this point in my Sabbatical I find that I am to practice this within my family. I am to serve my family in love and the power of Christ. This is action. It is not something to be considered, or intellectualized. I am to move and live in this role of servant within my family. You just need to know that everything within me recoils at this truth. Servanthood is not second nature for me. On the contrary, I can't think of anything harder... not because of my family but because of my pride.
This is a battle and I am calling on Papa for help. When the kids were small I used to tell them that we practiced love and respect within our family. I continued by saying that if they loved and respected each other and Dennis and I as parents, I knew they would likewise respect and love others outside of the family. Little did I know that I would need those words for myself. Again I repeat, this isn't about my family, this is about the battle of standing firm against pride, ego, and allowing humility to reign.
I am a sinner saved by my Saviors humility, power, love and grace. Please read Phil. 2. I am sure that Paul's words are meant to help us realize that we need our Savior's help. In some ways I believe that Jesus felt all that we have experienced, fighting His own temptations against pride. But He stood firm. With His help and by His grace, I hope to do the same.
Papa, I really need you. Help me to stand firm against pride that seeks my own good. I want to be more concerned about others and be more excited for other's accomplishments than for my own. Help me Father to be my family's and friend's greatest cheerleader, desiring to serve... to wash feet like you did.
How is Papa asking you to serve those around you today? Seek His help, get up and do it. Stand firm friends.
Please feel free to use this blog with your comments. Your encouragement or your struggle can help others along the way.
Blessings to you.
No comments:
Post a Comment