Easter reflections

What do we usually think about during this time of year? My thoughts wander more readily to the sacrifice the Lord made for us. I realize that he didn't have to do anything. He could have stayed in Heaven, forgot about us and let us drift away. If we were honest with ourselves, we would admit that sometimes we think that he has. It isn't true. He holds us in his arms and waits for us to notice him. I admittedly struggle with the concept of sacrifice. I wonder why. I see in my mind's eye the images of the Lord hanging on that cross. He did his father's will. How many of us can say the same?

Most, if they would admit to themselves, focus more on the pagan aspects of the celebration of Easter. It's hard to fathom what the Lord went through during those hours. Yet we also know that if he hadn't, then we would all be lost.

A time to be born, a time to die

I treasure the time I have to reflect on the wonders of life. New life is precious. You see a smiling newborn, and realize that this new life rejoices in its newness. It is a renewel. A time to reflect on the preciousness of life.

I realize this in the midst of a season where death seems to hover over us. I reflect on the Lord's sacrifice. I ponder how he could love me so much to die in my place.

I long for the time to see Christ in all his glory. Yet I know that I am needed down here.

Just like the flowers, I bloom in the sunlight of his love. Lord, thank you for that great love. Sometimes it's so hard to be thankful. The world tears you down, making you think that nothing is worthwhile or that you're worthless. You, O Lord, make me feel worthy. You bless me daily with the friends I see, my family and the challenges I face.

God's time

Often I wonder about what it would be like not to have to worry all the time about the things I can't do anything about at all. It's funny how often things seem to grow all out of proportion. You think that you can control it. Yet you can't. Once you let go, it all falls into place. I have been thinking lately about how I'm spending my time. I try to box it, but it doesn't seem to stay in one place. I try to regulate it...portion it out so that each second has some meaning or purpose. It doesn't work. I try to pretend that it's not passing or that my puny efforts will make it stop. I then recall a story I read in the bible about the sun standing still for six hours. I have to stand back then and realize that God has a plan for me and my life. So I have to stop worrying. That's easier said than done....and goes back to the first sentence of this blog.

Can you picture what it would be like? I imagine God smiling at me, encouraging me to let go and let him rule in my life.

End Times

More and more lately I feel that we're definitely in the period of time commonly referred to as the "End Times." I feel anxious at times, knowing that there are so many that don't know the Lord as their Savior. Yet, I also know...and have had it re-enforced in the past week or so...that everything is in God's hands. I'm thankful that this is so. I then realize as I look around, how blessed I am.

I recall even now the "Footprints" poem that is posted on my refrigerator. How true it is! God's timing is not ours. I walk along the beach, noting the hotels in the horizon and wonder at God's provision for me. I know I'm unworthy of his love. He gives it freely.