“…who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14

Here we are at the beginning of the Advent season.  We talk about that time, 2000 years ago when heaven touched Earth.  We reminisce about the coming of a Savior in a tiny village called Bethlehem that changed the world forever.  We look back at events that have assured us of our salvation, and we look forward, with hope, to the promise of His glorious return.  Isn’t that a wonderful story?  Looking back, looking forward.

But what about today?  It is my hope for each of us that we experience the presence of Christ in very tangible ways each day during this magnificent season.  Because He is the One who was, WHO IS, and who is to come.  Let us rejoice in a Savior that is here with us now, not just in the past (or future.)

I had the most incredible experience of Christ yesterday.  I have to share it because it was too good to keep to myself.

I don’t know about everyone else, but some days I just don’t feel great about my job.  I take a great risk at sharing this since most of you all know that I work for the most wonderful church ever.  But it’s true.  There are days that I find myself asking, “Why am I doing all this?  Am I doing any good at all?”  And I get discouraged.

Yesterday I woke up in much that condition.  But the Lord, my God, turned it into a beautiful day.  I can’t share any names for privacy reasons.  But I had not 2, not 3, not 4, BUT 5 divine encounters throughout the day that truly affirmed God presence with me, and also His encouragement for my ministry.

HE IS SO GOOD TO ME!  He battled all day with the enemy of discouragement for my sake.   I am so thankful.  In the span of 12 hours,  I was blessed with five different circumstances in which I could see God at work.  Before we get all gooey, none of those conversations consisted of someone telling me I was doing a good job.  But instead, I received something so much better.

In each instance, I could clearly hear God saying to me, “see, you are needed here.”  He knows me so well.  I rarely need a pat on the back.  But I do need to feel like what I do matters; like my efforts make a difference to people.  And in each of those opportunities, I saw that I could help folks in various ways.  What a gift for me…

May each of you be equally blessed my friends.

Gracious Lord,

Praise to the One who comes in the name of the Lord.  Praise to my Savior, who leads and guides me along life’s path.  My King, I thank You that You are involved in every day of my life.  You walk this road with me, encouraging me and providing everything I need.  Help me to worship You during this season, and to know You more deeply.

In the name of the Son I pray,

Amen