I remember a few years ago, a talented woman who would later become a dear friend of mine, invited me to her home in Colorado. As a new aspiring author I welcomed the opportunity to meet with her and a few of her writing friends and agent...but even more...I looked forward to spend time with a person I admired greatly.
I don't recall the order of events that led up to Tammy inviting me to her home...but I was ecstatic! Six months prior to our connection, I read Tammy's testimony in her book, Lifegiving, and privately prayed, "Lord, I would love to meet this lady and find out how you took her years of brokenness and opened doors to share about you so publicly."
I called my husband, "Baby, Tammy Maltby invited me to fly to Colorado and meet with her, her agent, and a group of friends. What do you think?" I asked excitedly, hoping he would urge me to go.
"I think you should go." He responded.
Yahoo...Colorado here I come. I cleared my calendar and oversaw all the necessary alterations to ensure I made the connection. By the way, thanks Tammy! You're the best! ;)
Friend, today we have an invitation from God. Are we willing?
In Matthew 23:37, Jesus cries out, "O Jerusalem , Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing." (NIV)
What caused God's people to reject Him? What enticed them away from drawing near to God? More importantly, what is our response? When God calls us, do we enthusiastically say yes? Make alterations to our schedule to ensure the connection?
Today, let's purpose to respond with a resounding "YES!" to God. Make changes to our schedule to spend time in His presence. Think about it...THE KING of all kings calls to us with an open invitation to enjoy His company! His Word brings us life, wisdom, and joy. His Spirit brings life and hope.
I for one, want to accept HIS OPEN INVITATION; Revelation 3:20 says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." (NIV)
Today, I felt compelled to remind you...You're invited!
Thanks Julie!
ReplyDelete