During the past few days I received several gifts beyond measure. I know that I did not deserve them, which serves to make them even more special, but I sure needed them! I accepted awesome gifts of friendship, love, care, concern, relationship and the opportunity to break bread together. The beauty included in the process was enhanced by the diversity that the network of those I call a ‘friend’ represent. This diversity of families, backgrounds, living situations, and beliefs reflects the world today – a stunning collage of shapes, colors, size, and sound.
The opportunity that continues to present itself through these gifts is found through one person sharing in and with another’s journey. I find myself increasingly humbled by this privilege. Life is far too precious to let these types of gifts go to waste yet too often I find myself chasing something that takes me away from things I hold most precious. Holding on, investing in, and working to maintain relationships form the basis for my highest priorities, yet at times it seems difficult. While I believe the gifts that come along during this process are a taste of heaven to come, the challenge of focus is one that is waged each and every day.
I also find that God is and can be part of this relationship network and journey. God is willing and able to be there with each step, if only we say yes! Saying yes – any expression of faith in Him – is all it takes.
In many ways it is our decision about God and our relationship to Him that defines who and what we are. We may not know what it is or how to describe it, but others will and do see and feel God in and through us. The awesome wonder and mystery is that “it’s exactly the same no matter what a person’s religious background may be: the same God for all of us, acting the same incredibly generous way to everyone who calls out for help. Everyone who calls, ‘Help, God!’ gets help.” (Romans 10.12,13)
