In the beginning…
The Garden of Eden was created with perfection. With one simple act of disobedience…everything changed.
Our society today is changing at a rapid pace. Many of us have difficulty accepting change. We may feel uncomfortable when faced with even the smallest alteration in our comfort zone. Then, there are those who love change. They get bored with the same routine every day. Frequent changes may bring excitement and newness to what they consider mundane.
How do you handle changes in your life? Whatever your answer, we all know the basic truth. EVERYTHING CHANGES! That is, everything in this world…
The Unending Love of God
Yes, this world is ever changing. But God is not of this world. He invites us into a constant, unending love affair with Him. He prays for our protection from pessimistic influences that destroy our peace of mind. His love is unconditional and provides all the grace we need to adapt to holiness. If we can prayerfully move our restlessness from our head to our heart, we will find great comfort in the Love of God as we allow His Spirit to transform us.
The ‘Confessions of St. Augustine’ is said to be the most read spiritual manual other than the Bible itself. In his autobiography, the Saint teaches us to look to God first. He does not say new things, he simply says we need to BE NEW! “Our heart is restless until it rests in You.” Beautiful words from a brilliant mind. Where do you seek rest for your heart?
The Call to Paul
There is no more dramatic conversion story than that of St. Paul. God’s plan greatly depended on a willing servant. Saul of Tarsus had all the right qualities for the job. He was just lacking the TRUTH! Saul needed a severe change of heart!
Heavenly light suddenly knocked Saul to the ground. Jesus’ gentle voice was clear, and His message was undeniable and even witnessed by others. He was blinded and went without food and drink for 3 days. God sent a believer named Ananias who reluctantly, yet with great trust, went to Saul to be Jesus’ Healing Hands. Saul was immediately baptized, and with his new and changed heart, he became Paul the disciple. Acts 9:1-31
Paul’s single conversion is unique and gave evidence to amazing worldwide transformation! His story, like so many others before us are proof God wants to bring peace to this world, but He needs softened hearts to do it. If we have faith in the Power of His Love, we can be part of the new and much needed worldwide transformation of this generation.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:34
With most good love stories there comes a change of heart. After some confusion, one party comes to the realization that he (or she) is totally in love with the other… And they live happily ever after…hopefully. Are we aware of God’s great and everlasting love for us? Are we too self-absorbed to appreciate His love and allow His grace to capture our hearts?
To have a change of heart and surrender your plans for love may not always be easy, but it is sure worth it! What are the treasures of your heart? What is stopping you from total surrender to the Love of God?
Our effect on the world may not be as widespread as St. Paul’s was, but God will do mighty things through us too, as we are just as important in His great plan! Let His Spirit nurture what is good within us and allow our hearts to change!
We too can look forward to Happily Ever After…Eternally!
Heartfelt Blessings to all!
Until our next walk through the garden…
-Anne
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