The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Heavenly Father, to know that you are with us and for us—to know that you intend for us to feel rest in our hearts right now, and eternal unbroken rest… what more could we possibly want, crave, or need? On this mystery-laced, always-graced journey between the resurrection and the return of Christ, you are fully engaged, in control, and will get us Home safely. Thank you, Father.
Some of us are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, and we have fresh heart wounds and empty chairs at our tables. Father, hold us tightly. Thank you for not cringing at our questions or despising our tears. When will it not hurt with such breath-taking force? Grant us grace for the whole process.
Some of us are walking through different types of transitions, and we feel vulnerable, fearful, and excited, all at the same time. Keep us from looking back, and idolizing the past. Free us from looking around, and envying other people and other situations. Keep us from looking within ourselves, as though we’ll find our competency and comfort there. Keep us looking up, into your face of grace and your heart of mercy.
Some of us are walking in difficult relationships, and we need wisdom, strength and hope. Help us remember that our children are really your children—gifts from you to us, whether they are walking with you or not. Help us to love them as unto you, with no other agenda.
Strengthen our friendships for this next season of life—treasuring the moments, sharing our weaknesses, and growing in grace. Above all, by your Spirit and the gospel, deepen our relationship with Jesus in 2018. Restore us to our first love and take us to places with Jesus we’ve never been before. When Jesus is our greatest treasure, everything else shrinks to its proper size.
