(Here I am working at my computer—notice the reflection in my glasses)
(Newly planted flowers in pots near my front door)
It’s time to plant flowers! I know it’s only March but with Eric’s wedding only weeks away—it’s time! I want everything to look nice for the guests. Sadly, we won’t have the remodeling done (or even started). Our tile “Conquest” by Interceramic, was discontinued about 4 or 5 years ago. We’re having a hard time finding it and need quite a bit to match the floor and counter tops. We didn’t want the house to be torn up when our company is here, so we have to wait until after the wedding to begin the project.
I want to bear witness to the fact that the Lord is a gracious Provider. First, since our insurance doesn’t cover anything related to sleep disorders, and a long-time friend completed my sleep study at no cost. Next, my flight out there was a gift from the couple who are producing the “Let’s Pray Today,” CD series. And finally, after returning home and pricing CPAP units (a machine to force air into my airways while I sleep), our friends Kenny and Angela gave me one! So, now I’m nearly set to begin using it, just need to have it calibrated according to my prescription.
Our pastor at church is preaching about the spiritual disciplines. It is very challenging to me personally. This week I was surprised to learn that one of the disciplines is celebration. This is so amazing. As children we know all about celebrating. I still remember our Sara on her birthday. Every cell of her being was full of joy knowing that it was her very own special day. She glowed from the moment she awoke until her head hit the pillow at night. She enjoyed her day, fully, lavishly, with no regrets. But often, as adults, we forget how to celebrate and have to be disciplined to keep it a part of our life.
It has always interested me that the Lord commanded His people to observe so many feasts, many lasting a week or more. Their year was filled with celebration—they took so many holidays that by North American standards, we might consider it to be excessive. The Lord didn’t, doesn’t. He wanted them to live that way. I think He still wants us to live that way, but we’re too busy being productive to experience our real purpose.
Our pastor said—only one fast was required but all these feasts. It shows God’s generosity. His desire for us, is “do,” not “don’t.” “Yes,” not “no.” Like in the garden— one ‘don’t touch’ too a multitude of ‘touch,’ ‘touch,’ ‘touch.’ And, that one “don’t” was given to keep us safe. Fun, God’s idea! Feasting, God’s idea! Laughing, enjoying life, celebrating, smiling—all His plan.
How often do we allow ourselves to be swept away? We can, if we discipline ourselves. It seems a contradiction, but it’s not. Discipline myself to stop working and play. Discipline myself to stop rushing and take time to listen to the birds and watch children be children. Notice the sunset and enjoy the smell and taste of food. Dance in response to the song in my heart. Live life freely. Doesn’t it sound tempting? Yummy? Those who are spiritually disciplined know how to live a life of celebration.
What would my life be like if I rejoiced and celebrated all of the time? If the reality of His constant love flowing down on me washed me away from the mundane tasks into a joyful river of thankfulness as I went about my daily routines? This has much more to do with attitude than about circumstances. I want to live in the fullness of His joy, don’t you? So, this week, I will take time to celebrate, I hope you’ll join me!
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