Friday, August 17, 2012

Appreciation for simple things

A renewed appreciation for my appreciation for simple things unexpectedly blossomed within me following a conversation with a loved one.

The truth is, my appreciation for simple things grew out of repeated disappointment over the years about not being able to have or do or accomplish what I thought were the greater things. And for a long time, this seemed like a shortcoming, a failing, a weakness and was a source of frustration. Why can't I have, do or accomplish what I want? I mostly bashed myself with the question, but I did also raise it to God and to people closest to me.

People who know me won't be surprised that I feel certain God answered that question for me as I turned to him in desperation but also faith, and slowly began to read and hear and really absorb His word and try to put it into action in my life.

The recent conversation helped me see anew a part of a transformation that I'm not always even aware of anymore.

What a joy it is to realize that, for the most part, the feelings of frustration and disappointment seldom hang around very long any more.

It might seem like all this means that I've lowered my expectations, and I have thought that along the way. But for today, I don't think that is the case. I think God calls each of us in a personal way, and part of His call to me has been this journey that includes longing for greater things and learning to be content with simpler things. That includes what I discern to be my calling or purpose: to prayerfully encourage others and to express what's on my heart, through words and music and actions, as God leads me, which often involves the acknowledgement of my shortcomings and weaknesses. I thank God for the continuing lessons and blessings.

This timely reminder from Scripture was included with a reading from Jesus Calling this week: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things."  (Philippians 4:8)

How interesting! I just saw what comes before that Scripture, which is so totally what I feel this moment: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your  hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105)

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