It's been 3 weeks now since I've returned, and I have ended a 4 day fast that lead me to new revelations about myself, and about my relationship with the lord. Thinking back on all of this from the trip, from the return home and from the spiritual battle that raged in my mind following it all. I have to praise God, for teaching me so many new things and shaping my heart in a new way.
When I returned home the loss of such an incredible sense of community was a blow to me in more ways than one and for a while I felt blinded, and blindsided by it all. I'm so thankful that I have a body of people around me that lift me up in prayer and encourage me so much. One thing that has "haunted" (I can't think of a word that describes it better..) me since my return is that someone complimented me immensely by saying "I see Christ in you". I don't know why but when this was said I was humbled beyond belief, I didn't know how to react and I still don't. What do you say to the best compliment that can be bestowed on you?? except Glory to God.
This week has been an exercise in renewing my mind with my true identity, found in Jesus Christ and not in the world, or it's many snares. In my Job as Tech-Support I get asked all the time by people how I can do this day in & day out. I give them the same answer and it confounds them. I simply say that I am here for the fun and not for the money. Usually they flip on their head at that point because most people are used to hearing.. "Yeah it's OK.. but blah I want more.." or something similar. I have enough for each day, and I am content in what I have. I don't hold my identity in what I do, or how much I make, or what things I have. but I base my identity on the unchanging truth from
Ephesians 1:13 "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit" (emphasis added)
What a Joy I have been given in discovering "who I am" and the words of the blind man Ring true to me and speak to me, "I once was blind, but now I see"
Blessings
2 comments:
Wow Brad...how beautiful. We are a CONSTANT work in progress and you are blessing me as you share your reflections. You and your team did an amazing work in the South that week but the rewards from serving are still molding you. I pray God continues to reveal himself to you in such powerful truth.
Blessings,
marcia
Amen, Thanks Marcia! your words of encouragement are exactly what I needed today :) Praise god for answering prayers in the masterful way that he does.
God Bless,
Brad
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