Come unto Me...

What a simple yet profound statement that is. He is longing for our fellowship. He designed it so that fellowship can be restored. And He loves us so much. I am astounded by this daily these days. So many have a view of God that is vindictive, enjoying 'punishing' us, making things deliberately difficult for us. And yet, the God of the Bible is just not like that. Surely, He is a God of justice, but One of profound mercy and grace as well...longing to dispense all His good on us. He was often harsh with His people, but all toward the end of restoring them to Him, bringing them back, glorifying Himself and revealing Himself to them. He is so much more than a Savior...and yet He is indeed that.

Our church posts Sunday sermons online and I have enjoyed keeping up with ones I miss. Apparently, I need to hear yesterday's! I have heard from so many that it was great, encouraging, so good...and variations on the same theme. Even Kristen came home commenting on how much she enjoyed it - she often does, but hearing this from a 16-year-old seems especially precious. It was on her favorite verses and wouldn't you know? "Jesus Calling" uses those same verses in this morning's devotional! Always astounds me when that happens.

Matthew 11:28-30

²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

From Jesus Calling - "Come to me and rest in My loving Presence. You know that this day will bring difficulties, and you are trying to think your way through those trials. As you anticipate what is ahead of you, you forget that I am with you - now and always...Come to me, and relax in My Peace. I will strengthen you and prepare you for this day, transforming your fear into confident trust."

Aren't those thoughts encouraging? I pray they are for you. No matter what, He knows and goes before us...ready to catch us when we fall, ready to comfort when we fear, ready to teach us when our hearts are soft to His word. I look forward to having the sermon up on the website so I can hear it...

Thankful thoughts:

• a wonderful visit with my Mom and sister, Padge. And potroast!  Yum!
• sweet time with Bridget, my resident giggler...she's good for me!
• Feeling better enough last night to fold laundry and make Buddy's lunch.
• Sunrises...so full of hope.
• Unexpected flowers! Thank you , my Great Valley friends. Such a pleasant surprise!
• The beauty of frost...the crystals were so large and beautiful on our deck this morning.  Cold, yes! But, so delicate and fascinating.
• Hair, completely gone! I know this is a weird one, but I shaved the rest off. The stubble hurt my head!

Have a blessed day. Andi