Life drains away my peace and I lose hold of what I most deeply need. So I’m reminding myself and you:
God is so gentle. He does not force or manipulate or rush us. He does not ignore or dismiss or abandon us. He is always present, wooing us and inviting us and waiting patiently for us. He knows our pain and woundedness. He sorrows with our grief and fear. He speaks kindly to our hearts and never gives up. He never gives up no matter how misguided or confused we are, no matter how stubborn or withdrawn we are. He treats us like a kindhearted foster treats a dog cowering in the corner of the kennel. He knows our struggle to trust him does not come from ill will, but from the many times we have been hurt and frightened in this unsafe world. And we keep getting hurt, over and over. We are judged and rejected, misunderstood and mistreated in so many small and big ways. Our plans fail. Our heart gives out. Our hope dims. But God is always offering us his gentleness and acceptance, his empathy and love.
Janathan Grace Reflections 
Leave a comment