As I'm experiencing extreme heartburn for the first time in my life (darn Zoloft!) and can't sleep, I will share some thoughts. I'm deep in the weeds of midterms; and having four major things due by Friday is putting some pressure on me. (I'm begining to wonder if I'm going to end up like Pancake - my friend's flat African clawed frog).
So, this morning, I woke up in quite a panic to get started with my day and my work. Being myself, I immediately thought of a quote that's been percolating around in my community. "All your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists simply in shoving them back; in listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in." C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity. As I took out my computer and started to compile the 50 things I was thankful for, I kept getting derailed thinking "I need to be doing homework! I can't think of anything I'm thankful for until I get these projects and tests done!" But the still small voice that hadn't quite gotten drowned out said, "Finish this first, and I will bless your work". At number 42, I was struck with the sudden realization that when God looks at me, he loves me... absolutely delights in me; and he would love to tell me so if I would just listen.
My message to you today is this: God loves you with an always love. He loves with a powerful love that can raise life in the dead and create galaxies from nothing. He loves you with a love that may burn away your flaws in a painful manner because He does not want you to be anything less than the best person He intended you to be. You are His masterpiece; and He delights in your many hues, gifts, quirks, etc. If you would only take the time to look into His eyes, you might see the love shining back at you. When you are able to appreciate the good in yourself by looking through God's eyes, then you will be able to love others in the same manner. Do not be afraid to love yourself. Know that in loving yourself, you are loving another part of God's good creation - just as you would love a sunset or a starry night or a golden retriever puppy, or an ice cream cone on a hot summer day. May you know the Lord's burning, all-consuming love for you.
Love,
Katie
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