I did not grow up in a tradition that is big on Lent or on fasting, for that matter. However, I’m conscious that there are folk amongst us who observe this tradition very seriously. I pray as you set aside time for prayer and contemplation in this season that you will experience God in new ways. For others who don’t observe the season in that way, I pray that you do make time for prayer and contemplation, not necessarily in this season, but on a regular basis. Please consider Today’s Holy Nougat.
Romans 15:13 CEB
[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in faith so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit
Emmanuel: God with Us
Recently, someone challenged the concept of God with us in all things and at all times. It was shocking and disappointing all at once. I was shocked because I just didn’t expect to hear those words in the space we were in. I was also disappointed, as I felt it suggested my life wasn’t testifying of God’s presence in ways that convict and convince others.
Self-Check
What messages are our lives sending to the world about God?
Application
Siblings, God is not only with us, through the person of Y’shua Jesus, God is within us, through the Spirit of God, once we accept Jesus as our Saviour. Already, that is reason for joy because Jesus in an equation is a real game changer, even when we struggle to believe.
Our Nougat invites us to recognize the presence of Y’shua, God with us, to the extent that we are joyful always. How can we be joyful in the face of all that is happening to and around us? I propose that we begin with counting our blessings. For what one thing might we be thankful? Are there other little things that we’ve failed to notice? It might be time for us to find joy in the little things.
Remember Jonah? He was upset that God would take the time to care about the welfare of an entire nation but not allow a broom tree to live. For the record, that is NOT living in the joy of the Lord. When we fail to see God at work in the intricate details impacting other’s lives, we run the risk of begrudging them God’s blessings. Maybe we could try to be happy on their behalf.
If we can experience the positive elements of the weather, let’s be joyful
If we can take a moment to see God in the beauty of Creation, let’s be joyful
If we can see evidence of God through someone’s creativity, let’s be joyful
If our actions have the potential to transform another’s life, let’s be joyful
Being joyful is contagious and has the potential to prove to others that God is with us all.
Point to Ponder
How can we be agents of God’s joy today?
—
May all we seek be found in Christ
