Dear Church, don't rush past...

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

I always thought Paul was so cool starting his letters like that, so I really wanted to give it a try…how’d I do?

Anyway, I hope that you are still basking in the Resurrection glow, because friends…the grave is still empty, Jesus is still alive, and Jesus is still King. No matter what life brings our way, our hope and confidence can rest secure because Hope has a name, His name is Jesus.

As I was on my walk this morning, I turned a corner, and the sun was just magnificent. I had to stop to take it in because it was just too beautiful to rush past. I must admit, the Lord has been reminding me that it’s not just okay to slow down, but necessary because far too often in the hurry of our days, we might catch a glimpse of the magnificence that God has on full display for us but not get to enjoy it as He intends. And these are the moments that fill our soul to keep journeying on.

So, this afternoon I ask, how’s your soul? Have you given yourself grace to slow down and stop and watch the sun? Have you allowed yourself to think about the victory of the empty grave over these last few days and what that means for your life? Have you noticed the sweet song of the birds, the gentle breeze that cools your skin, and the warmth of the sun? Have you looked into the eyes of the one God has placed before you and acknowledged their human experience with a smile?

Don’t rush past these divine moments. Don’t rush past the Resurrection. It’s too good, and too beautiful to only behold for one day out of the year. Jesus lives, and so do we! He is the bright and morning star, the Alpha and Omega, beginning and end, the One who was, is, and is to come! How beautiful is Your name, Jesus.

Lord, awaken us to You. Rekindle our first love. May we behold You in every way and find Your fingerprints all around.

For King and Kingdom,

Audrey