Here is a poem that David Roper shared.
“Isn’t it odd
That a being like God
Who sees the facade
Still loves the clod
He made out of sod?
Now isn’t that odd? Unknown writer
I have never understood why God loves someone like me. I try hard to do what is right but I get frustrated and say something that might hurt the other person’s feelings. I told my co-worker to select her next video to listen to and stop using her phone. She replied, “Why?” She caught me by surprise because our employer is starting a ban on phones on the floor next week. This week was a grace period. So, I am required to remind them. I replied,”That’s a stupid question.” I added “You are not stupid. I know that you are a smart person. The question was stupid only.” I think there was a better way to handle her response. But, she puzzles me with her odd responses sometimes.
“Solitude begins with a time and place for God, and him alone. If we really believe not only that God exists, but that he is actively present in our lives-healing, teaching, and guiding-we need to set aside a time and space to give him our undivided attention.” Henri Nouwen
I need to do this. I read a daily devotional as part of my breakfast but I usually have a YouTube video playing in the background.
“God lets us fall not to shame us, but to assure us that though we are guilty, vile, and helpless we are deeply loved by God. God’s love in the face of our wickedness is what awakens us to humility and contrition.” (Pg. 84)
Here is my favorite quote from this book. “As we draw closer to Him-walking with Him, talking to Him, listening to His words,relying on Him, asking for His help-His character begins to rub off on us. Quietly and unobtrusively His influence softens our wills, making us thirsty for righteousness, inclining us to do His pleasure, restraining our passions, keeping us from evil, making us ashamed of evil, giving us the courage to choose what is good. In His quiet love He takes all that’s unworthy in us and gradually turns it into something worthwhile for Him.” (Pgs 94-95)
Dear God, please do this for me. I want to grow closer to you like a plant leans towards the sun. Yet, I fail to spend time with you. Sure, I pray to you while I drive to work and read a devotional during breakfast. But, I usually have a YouTube video playing while I try to comprehend what I am reading. Sometimes, it makes me think. Other times, I forget it all before I finish breakfast. Please forgive my failings and use the moments when I manage to stumble in the right direction. Amen.