“We are convinced that you are made for better things, the things of salvation, because God is not unjust or unfair. He won’t overlook the work you have done or the love you have carried to each other in His name while doing His work…” – Hebrews 6:9-10

How do you experience the presence of God? There is no right answer. For many of us, we don’t know how to answer that question, however, it is critical that we understand our relationship with Christ. We all connect in different ways, and that is the way He wired us.

For some of us, music is the channel. For others, the Word. Nature has a way of speaking; as does art. Oh, and don’t forget the counsel of faithful friends. The truth is, God speaks in more ways we can count. The key to our relationship with Him is figuring out how we are individually tuned to hear. We all work on different frequencies.

My good friend, Michael, goes faithfully to Nicaragua each year to build homes for people that have none. He blessed me once by sharing his motivation for spending his vacations in a hot, bug-infested jungle while eating only beans and tortillas 3 times a day.

In all honestly, that sounds perfectly wretched to me. (I never said I was the model Christian.) But for Michael, it is so much more than a mission experience. He explained how this was the place where he most powerfully connected with God. If I recall correctly, his words were, “I never feel the presence of God more powerfully than when I have a hammer in my hand.” – BEAUTIFUL! What a testimony. I am so thankful that he shared that experience with me, because I most likely, would never have thought of that as a way to drawn near to my Savior.  But he would never miss it.

As we invest each day of this Lenten season seeking to connect and know Jesus more fully, maybe we can try some new experiences. Maybe we can take in the full realm of God’s glory by stepping out of our comfort zones and seeing Him at work in a different place. Perhaps, in addition to focusing inward, we should try focusing outward in the service of others. And just maybe, we will find a brand new means of grace for our journey.  Where is it that He might call  us if we are willing to go?

Grace to you friends.

Heavenly Father,

Blessed is He who comes in the name of our Lord. He is the Christ. The One who binds up the broken-hearted, heals the sick, cares for the orphans, and sets the captives free. Give me a heart for those You care about my king. Create in me a longing to love those in need of Your healing touch. Lead me to be a servant for Your kingdom and Your glory. And through Your grace, may my heart and mind be transformed.

In the name of my Savior I pray,

Amen

If you are looking for an opportunity to serve others during this season, there are several opportunities being made available through our church, Liberty Crossings. Most notably, we will be hosting another Habitat for Humanity Build Day. On March 12^th, we will gather (no experience necessary,) to help build a home for a family in need. For more information, please contact Mark Harmon: mharmon@renasant.com