When the Ordinary Starts to Become Extraordinary

Sometimes it's very easy to see what is missing. To feel that ache inside and frantically look for what can fix it. Sometimes it's right in front of us. 

The Lord says in His Word, "Be still and KNOW that I am God." 

We need to rest. We need to be still. We need to see what is around us. That's when the ordinary becomes extraordinary. The incredible is right in front of us and sometimes we miss it while we are waiting or jumping into the next adventure that catches our eye. 

The little buds on the trees, the tiny wildflowers poking their crowns through the rough grass. Hints of soft green coloring what used to be brown. New life. Resurrection. Rebirth. 

It's all around us. Yes, there is so much heartache and death. I work there. You do, too. But, there is so much life. 

It's when we learn to be still and silent that we begin to see it and hear it. When we stop that we aren't missing out anymore. 

I wasn't going to post this song, but I feel like it might bless you as much as it has blessed me. 

Do what is in front of you. Enjoy what is in front of you. There's beauty there. Don't miss out on what is here while you are out looking for something else. Do it with love. Do it because Christ is in it. Do it because He loved us first and loves us most. 

Little Things with Great Love (cover)

A Prayer for the Broken

Oh Lord, 
What do we do with our one broken heart? 
We can only lay it out before You. 
Do not let it harden,
or go to sleep, 
or wallow. 
But, cause us to present it before You, open and ready for Your use, 
as humble, messed-up and in need of healing as we are. 
Heal us. 
Deliver us from evil. 
Save us from the evil one. 
Seal us with Your Spirit. 

It hurts and it will continue to as long as we live, but it will hurt less than if we close it up and let it shrivel and die. 
Do not let us. 
Do not let us shut it down. 
Uproot up the weeds, prune the bad fruit and cut us open to drain the poison. Do not let us die slowly, but heal fully in our souls in Your powerful Spirit who rose Jesus Christ from the dead. 
We believe in this Resurrection Power, because it has brought our hearts to life, too. 
Thank You. 
We love You. 
We love You because You loved us first. 
Awaken us. 
Make us look up. 
Fill our eyes with light. 
Fill our hearts with peace that passes understanding. 
We love you. 
We worship. 
We praise You. 
Thank You for loving us. 

The Power of a Great Affection  by Andrew Peterson

Philippians 1- our affection for each other and encouragement

Ephesians 3:14-21- prayer for spiritual strength through the power of the Holy Spirit 

Revelation 22:1-5- our future hope