My Beautiful and Faithful Father, You are the one and only true God. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten not made—that is Jesus.
You, Jesus, left the heavenly places to be with us, to personally experience life as a man—to feel joy and happiness, to gather with friends to celebrate and rejoice, to feel sadness and grief. You even got frustrated and angry. Nothing we experience is foreign to you.
We have that in common and for that I am incredibly grateful. I know that you’re with me in each of my experiences. But am I with You?
The wise men came searching for You. They travelled a very long distance, probably some of it treacherous, just to see You—the King of kings. They worshipped You and gave You gifts. They revered You.
Do I do that? Do I search for You? Am I single-minded in my efforts to make time for You? Do I include You in my life? Or, are You a sidebar, an occasional consultant?
You’re not going to make me feel guilty. You’re not going to force Yourself on me. It’s my choice. Just like the wise men—they chose to follow the star. They had hope in Who they would find. But it wasn’t a guarantee; it was faith. Despite the sacrifices they knew they would have to make, they did it. They even gave You from their own wealth and belongings. And, … they worshipped You.
Holy Spirit, I need to be intentional, I need to be persistent, I need conviction—to not only believe in You, but to follow You. I want to live my life with You—in communion.
I have that opportunity because of Jesus. I don’t want to squander it. I don’t want to be halfhearted. Help me do that! Convict me when I need conviction. Encourage me when I need encouragement. Gently nudge me when I’m distracted.
Bring joy to my heart and soul, a peace that transcends understanding, knowing that I am always Yours and loved.
And when I don’t get it right—which will inevitably occur—remind me that nothing can separate me from You and Your love. You are my Shepherd. You will pursue me. You will never stop seeking to bring me into relationship with You. Praise God for that!
In the Faithful and Love Enduring Name of Jesus I pray.
Amen
