I was away this past weekend without hubby or baby for the first time. 3 whole days.
It was a beautiful thing. I felt like I was suddenly able to concentrate on things I otherwise neglect. (like shaving my legs ; ) )
I took a 20 minute shower. Could have been longer. I let the water run, I was still, I thought about my sweet family, I was covered with peace and pumpkin body scrub.
I hiked, I read, I journaled, breathed deeply in Yoga class, enjoyed chocolate chip cookies, worshiped the Lord..it was beautiful beyond description.
I missed my family tremendously, but I got the permission to be selfish, and it was irreplacable. Just the Lord and me (and 30 other women from my church, who are AMAZING).
Our speaker, Kathleen, was full of wisdom and strength. She spoke the truth elequantly, I could have listened to her speak for eternity.
I would love to share my main take-away with you.
She spoke out of Ephesians 3:14-21. This passage addresses the Love of Christ. She unpacked verse 17.
“I pray that Christ will live in your hearts by faith and that your life will be strong in love and be built on love.” (NCV)
She called it being “rooted in love.”
Being rooted in love, by faith, so that we can truly love others. Without jealousy, without reservation, without distraction. We can do this because we are rooted, we know we are FULLY, UNCONDITIONALLY loved by Christ.
Until we are rooted, we can be toxic to others and ourselves.
For me, this is huge. Not only understanding His love in my mind, but letting it sink into my heart. Letting Him love me. Letting him delight in me. When I’m sad or hurting, He does not tell me to toughen up. He sits with me. He listens to me. I do not shame him. He looks at me and smiles. He is pleased.
So wonderful, so refreshing to be in His word all weekend.
Thanks for letting me share, I’m off to take a 1 minute shower so I can kiss my snuggle love when she wakes up.
JH
The Morning Mug 