Celebration

The tables were set with balloons, birthday hats and streamers. Very bright, very cheery, very celebratory. In gratitude for all that God blesses us with, we gladly bring our offerings and tithes to God who loves us and desires only the very best for us, who desires a relationship of depth and meaning, who uses every circumstance to bring about the best for us. There was a time when putting a single dollar into the offering plate seemed like a pretty good offering, and even as incomes grew, to put in $20 seemed to be a reason to pat myself on the back. But you know what? It isn't. The children's message brought it to a practical understanding... we give back to God one and we keep nine. That's not really very much. Pastor Teri brought a message that spoke to all of us.... there will never seem to be a day when we will be able to give that one-tenth, there's always reasons to hold on to what we have been given, and most of those reasons are reasonable. But for us to step out in faith, to be more than a warm body coming to the party, to show our gratitude for all that we have, to take that step requires us to give that one tenth back.

As my life changes, as we sell the company that's been a part of my life for 17 years, as I step out in faith to be a part of God, I find myself strangely not anxious, not worried, not hesitant. I know that no matter what happens in my life, God is there. I know that no matter what bad decisions I unintentionally make, God will work through them. I know that no matter what situation arises, God is there for me. I know that when I am happy or when I am in tears, God feels the same. I know that when I feel God in my life, God is there. But more importantly, I know when I don't feel God in my life, God is still there.

So if I'm not feeling anxious, worried or hesitant, what am I feeling? I am rejoicing. I am strengthened in God. I am willing to be be molded by God. I look forward eagerly to what the future holds. Am I afraid sometimes? Of course. There's always a bit of fear of the unknown. But God won't let me down. God will always be there for me. And so I learn to trust.

Thank you God!