Two weeks ago something fabulous happened! In the midst of the frenzy of getting ready to go back to school, a breath of fresh air blew in! A package arrived from home! My wonderful sister had sent off an envelope full of goodies for us. It arrived and turned a normal, mundane day into a mini-celebration!
We get so excited to get mail of any kind from home, but packages are especially thrilling. This one was no exception! Inside were tucked some very special paintings by a certain favorite three year old of ours, some delicious smelling Bath and Body Works potions (one of the things I miss most about America), and a notebook that says, "Let's talk soon because I miss you hearing the sound of my voice".
As I laid out all my new treasures I could not for the life of me wipe the grin off my face! Each thing was specially made or chosen to make me smile, by people who know me and love me so well! It isn't really about the stuff at all (although, it has to be said, that the stuff is great too). It is so much more about the love and special thoughts, the time and energy that it takes to send a package. I know that one day, long before the package arrived, Jonathan sat down and painted some pictures especially for Nenni and Bobbo. Molly went to Bath and Body Works and picked something out for me, and when she saw the saying on that notebook, it reminded her of me and she knew I'd find it as funny as she did! It is the fact that my sister and her family love us, know us, think about us, remember us, and even though there are thousands of miles and an ocean in between, are connected to us in a special way!
It isn't just receiving packages that is exciting. I have such a thrill when I send something off home too... "speical prizes" for Jonathan and Ben, souvenirs from trips we've taken, or birthday presents. I can't wait till they arrive so my family can enjoy the things I've picked out for them.
I wonder if God got the same thrill when he gave us his Word. As He inspired every thought and phrase in Scripture, did he have each one of us in mind? Was every story and verse picked to remind us that he loves us, knows us, thinks about us, and remembers us? Does he wait with eager anticipation for us to receive His special gift to us every day?
I am ashamed to think of how many days I let God's gift go unopened. How much am I missing out on when I am too tired, too busy, or too preoccupied to open up the Bible and see what the God who created me wants to share with me?
As I stand at the start of another academic year, as the calendar fills up with commitments, activities, work, ministry, church, and all the other things that vie for my time and attention, I am recommitting myself to enjoying the surprises and challenges that God has in store for me each day in His Word. They are sent with love from someone who knows me better than I know myself!
Hebrews 4:12-16 The Message translation
God means what he says. What he says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. Nothing and no one is impervious to God’s Word. We can’t get away from it—no matter what.
Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.
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