April 22, 2001
"I will rejoice over Jerusalem and take delight in my people;
the sound of weeping and of crying will be heard in it no more."
"my chosen ones will long enjoy the works of their hands. "
"Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."
Isaiah 65:19, 22, 24
These few verses really stood out to me this morning as I wrestled with some thoughts in my mind. It's God's heart and desire that we get to a time and place where there will be no more pain and mourning... unfortunately that's not right now, that is what we have to look forward to in heaven and in being with God forever. What it does tell me is that in the here and now, God wants us to enjoy our life and the fruit of our life for a long time - that's a blessing from him. In order to get to that place and time it's important that we face or deal with the things that would hold us back from having just that life right now... I was thinking about Jn 8:32 and the fact that it's the truth that sets us free. Several friends have pointed that out to me lately and there are times it's comforting and there are times I really don't like that verse but I know it's true.. it's only by really facing what's there that we can grow through it and experience all the blessings God has designed for us.