Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
November 16, 2024
Matthew 28:16-20
16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. 18 Jesus came near and spoke to them, “I’ve received all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”
Good Morning! Welcome to a new day of blessings!
This morning, I am working through a self-imposed pity party. God blesses me in so many ways and promises to be with me always. I know and believe this with all my heart, yet sometimes I feel alone.
Alone time is an interesting paradox. We have times when crowds, noise, and chaos overstimulate us, and we long for quiet, alone time. I remember a young mother once confessing to me that she loved her baby and her new life, but she just needed some “me” time.
Another piece of the paradox is recognizing that I enjoy hosting or being in a house full of people for a time, but then I reach a point where I can’t wait to go home or for everyone else to go home.
Typically, my mornings are my solitary time with God, when I can temporarily leave my earthly concerns and responsibilities behind. This time is precious, and I look forward to the liminal space in which I can connect with God.
Occasionally, like this morning, I was lonesome and needed someone to share my space. I didn’t need conversation or entertainment, just the presence of being together. As tears filled my eyes, I sat and watched some leaves dancing in the air as they floated to the ground. Feeling the warmth of the sunshine coming through my window, I decided it was time to end my pity party and celebrate my blessings. Praise be to God who lifts me up!
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops?
What if Your healing comes through tears?
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near?
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy?
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise?
Dear Lord, We are your children! We experience life through the highs and lows of our successes and challenges. Thank you for loving so much that you work through our choices and help us find our way back home. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Our connection to God can never be broken.
Embrace God’s love! Pastor Liz
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