Evidence

...In every season, from where I’m standing 

    I see the evidence of Your goodness

    All over my l life, all over my life

    I see  Your promises in fulfillment...

-Evidence Josh Baldwin

    The other day, the temperature dipped and I found myself wanting to go for a walk, this is rare because in the Memphis heat rarely do I want to go for a walk. But nevertheless, I was halfway around the block, when suddenly this song came on. The lyrics reminded me of God’s goodness throughout my WHOLE life. Although the current season had left many shaken, myself included, I knew that God was and will continue to be present, all I had to do was look. 

    In any good detective case, the evidence is all around. You just have to look for it. This is important because the truth of God’s love may not be as easily uncovered.  God’s hand print has graciously touched every facet of our life. I remember considering moving to Memphis, to be closer to family during this past season and how God’s provision had provided every door to be opened and the perfect work schedule to be obtained. I consider the evidence that a routine examination would uncover a cancerous cyst growing inward, which was rare in itself. I consider the evidence that when I feel alone,the word, his promises, remind me that I am never alone. The evidence is all around us.

    So if you find yourself shaken, not understanding the chaos that might surround you. I encourage you to take a moment. Examine the details and look for the evidence that God has been there all along. This may be done through reflection, meditation, or journaling. But I guarantee you, that if you take a second to reflect, you will find evidence of God’s love all around you. 

What's the story?

I'll be honest, i've never been much of a reader. I've loathed over having to read books. As a matter a fact, I remember dropping 10th English honors because I did not want to read the summer reading list. A decision I regret to this day. Despite not being much of a reader, I do enjoy and value a good story.

A prominent leader once said that it takes an average person about 10 years worth of experience to write a book. So the way he figured, if he read 1 book a year, he'd be gaining the experience of 10 years with each book. I recently finished a book, that had a lifetime's worth of experience and wisdom. The Imam's Daughter tells the story of a Pakistani Muslim growing up in late 80's to mid 90's England. It tells the story of her terrible struggle through cultural norms as well as personal hardships, that included sexual abuse and torment. Hannah a pseudonym  for the author and teller of the story eventually found faith as she detailed her slow road to recovery. The key to opening that door was Love.

Here's what I walked away with. Never discredit the impact of the simple act of love. At times we might have to love someone implicitely. A simple smile or door holding might do. However, other times, we might have to show love with big motions and waves of acceptance and an outpouring of love. In those times, we must not be afraid to love lavishly. The way God loves us lavishly. May we take the time to understand and hear each other's stories and may we be ready to LOVE greatly, when the opportunity comes.