Tag: good

I am good at . . .

I’m an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I’m thinking. (Psalm 139:2 The Message)

” . . . there’s a big difference between humility and discounting ourselves.” (Melodie Beattie)

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vignette from “Lantern Festival” at Botanical Gardens

Many times in my life I have put myself down, discredited my abilities and been just plain mean to myself. How about you? Do you tell yourself less than complimentary things? Are you more likely to list what’s “wrong” with you rather than your strengths and accomplishments?

Today’s list challenged me to look at myself through a more realistic lens. Things I am good at!

After you read my list, I challenge you to get honest with yourself before our gracious Maker and list all things good about YOU!

I am good at . . .

listening, trusting, giving
sharing, creating, being active
eating well, making time for fun
writing, thinking, cooking, cleaning
being aware, being alert, being faithful
loving, serving, helping
organizing, teaching, encouraging
welcoming, caring, discerning
accumulating clutter
making messes and cleaning them up
collecting memories
taking pictures
telling stories
seeking adventures
sewing, crafting, sketching
playing, laughing, crying
celebrating, choosing, designing
reading, learning, making up answers
generating ideas, imagining, expressing
exploring, discovering, preparing
giving permission to others
making lists!

 

Posted on by kelrohlf 4

Good: What One Clings To

See him at the judgment hall, beaten, bound, reviled, arraigned;

O the worm-wood and the Gall! O the pangs his soul sustained!

Shun not suffering, shame, or loss; learn of Christ to bear the cross.

(James Montgomery)

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 . . . fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2 NIV)

On this side of the cross, we call this day good. We cling to the cross, surrendering there, surveying its wonder. Amazed by love that held our Savior to a rugged, tortuous death. Taking our place. The beatings, the demeaning slurs and slaps and mockeries all weigh down this redeemed heart.

As I stand under the shadow of the cross today, I feel relieved that the narrative doesn’t end there. What is my faith built on? Do I really surrender at the cross? Or do I surrender to His love? Do I surrender when I find out the tomb is empty or when I see Him ascend in the clouds? Do I promise to love Him over breakfast on the beach, when He asks that searching question: “Do you love me?”

What does my love and devotion look like? Is it ritual or real? Is it messy or measured? Does my sin hold His attention or does His love hold mine?

I have contemplated the cross year after year, and you’d think I’d have more answers than questions. But tonight, I wonder why do we cling to the cross, why do we relive the suffering of Jesus? He demonstrated and declared, “It is finished!” Why can’t I just fast forward to the sunrise and the joy that was set before Him? As I walked to my car, after the Good Friday service, a song poured into my heart and onto my lips:

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.

(Edward Mote)

What is your hope built on?

Posted on by kelrohlf 1