Lent 2020: Week 4 – Rest

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

Luke 18:15-17

“People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

I simply must include one of my favorite photos I found online a few years ago. Every time I see it, I can’t help but see me in the photo with Jesus. It also reminds me of a real photo of me in my moms arms as a child. Mothers are gifts from God.

Rev. Sam writes (page 23) about children today and how they change the lives of all those around them. I can’t speak from a parents perspective with children but as an aunt of a niece and nephew and a great-aunt of two boys, soon to be three boys I can say with certainty children are a blessing. I also had the opportunity to share in the early lives of two twin boys of a dear friend of mine. I have enjoyed seeing all these children grow, learn and change. They grow up so quickly, almost too quickly, one day they love to hug you and the next, they are too cool for such things. (Lol). I look back on my own childhood and remember all the sacrifices my parents made for me. Having the support and physical presence of my parents is beyond words, my heart is full. With the fast paced world we live in it can be easy to have things pass us by. Please take time for your children, they may not see the benefits now but it will matter later in life. Enjoy the wonder and curiosity of our youth, encourage them and provide avenues to chase their dreams. They grow up so very fast! In our scripture verses for today, Jesus welcomes children with open arms. The disciples thought they were disrupting the work they were doing, Jesus quickly says to the disciples, “for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” ~Luke 18:16-17

Children remind us of what pure love is all about, they remind us of God’s love for us. The importance of Sabbath REST, is to slow down, redirect our thoughts even recalibrate ourselves from the chaos going on in the world area us. We are in trying times right now, we need God more than ever to navigate the daily changes that are being implemented for our safety and health. We can still support and encourage one another in the midst of these trials. Trust in God, love children, love your neighbors, pray for your community, your family, your friends, your nation, your government and it’s leaders. Find rest in God the Father! My prayers and thoughts are with you my friends! Go in Peace~

Practice:

If you have children, ask them to choose and activity to do together, be intentional and present with them. If you do not have children, choose a childlike activity to enjoy. Play and have fun! Be joyous!

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

ACC Lent 2020

Wednesday, March 18th, 2020

Our photo word for today is SENT!

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: SENT

• past tense and past participle of SEND

• to dispatch by a means of communication

• to cause to happen

• to direct, order, or request to go

We are all God’s children and it is our responsibility to spread the good news. We are messengers sent out into the world to share the love of God. I am thankful to those individuals called to missionary work in remote parts of the world, there is a need. The need is also within our own neighborhoods to share the love of God. I understand that with the some may work in environments were topics of religion and politics are discouraged, it is our actions that speak the loudest to others. Being kind and considerate to others speaks volumes of your character and your walk with Christ.

Romans 10:12-15

“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light

https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/sent/