I know that I have to prepare for the new Bible Study series starting this Sunday. But, I haven't been able to sit myself down, focus, and study intently. I know that I have to start taking down Christmas decorations; but, putting them up was so much more fun. I know I have to start dealing with things that are coming up in the New Year, because life doesn't stop even if I'm not ready for it to continue: there's my aunt's funeral next week; I have to put on my "shepherd" hat again for my class; I have to make appointments to see the eye doctor, the oral surgeon, the dentist, etc.; I have to get my oil changed; I have to start thinking about house projects again (e.g. exterior painting).....
At least I've been slowly but surely addressing life..... my house actually has a "new car smell" right now, since I just got new sofas to replace the ones that were torn/broken. God did lead me to give an end-of-the-year donation to World Vision. May He use it for His Work through that ministry. I've been preparing for my class' New Year potluck, by making sure I have enough space, and tables/chairs to accommodate people. In some ways, my mom's room project is changing my schedule and time; but, I do hope that by fixing it up, it will help improve her health by being rid of the dust and mold.
I think that what I feel like I need most right now is to just sit at Jesus' feet and find focus and renewal. I've been reading Mike's journal on the Tenth Avenue North website, and I'm so impressed by his passion for God. I read his entries; and in contrast to mine; I can see how he is writing about the amazing insights that God has given him, whereas I'm just writing about life and occasionally about what I learn. I realize that I have a long way to go, when it comes to writing. It's great that his faith is reflected in his songs. In his "Hold My Heart" entry, he pointed out that in Mark 7:33a when it said "and taking him aside from the crowd, privately...", it was a reminder that we need to personally come face to face with Jesus (daily!). My relationship with Christ should not just be going to church, playing Christian music, or even preparing for Bible Study. It's having that intimate encounter with HIM, communicating with HIM, loving HIM, experiencing His Presence, allowing HIM to teach and guide me as I walk with HIM. In listening to some of the stories behind the songs, a couple of quotes stood out:
- "Waiting is saying I'm going to be content in being discontent"
- St Augustine is quoted as saying "Our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee, O Lord"
At the close of this entry, I'd like to write about one of my favorite verses to comtemplate around New Years', Luke 2:52. It's the verse I use to evaluate my growth in the major four areas of life:
- Mental - I haven't read as many books the last couple of years as I have in the past. I really should make more of an effort to get back into that
- Physical - I haven't been so consistent. I'm not doing badly; and I was actually really good last week after returning from the cruise; but, I could definitely improve
- Spiritual - I'm still "thirsty"; but, hopefully, I will soon get back into the routine of preparing for studies and allowing God to teach me through His Word
- Social - I have good friendships; but, this is probably still my weakest area
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