All-Encompassing Love

     It is out baby’s 23^rd birthday today. She is living at home after a few years away at school. The morning will begin with chocolate chip pancakes and a gift and end with a family celebration. This has been a stressful week for Lauren. One of her special education students is in the hospital in an induced coma. It was difficult for her to see this precious child immobile, not knowing if he will be ok.  Next was a flu-bug. Last night she donated ten inches of her beautiful hair to “Locks of Love.” The salon was thirty minutes from home and there was a dense fog to get through driving home.

Navigating life’s ups and downs can be tricky. Lauren knows Jesus and for this my heart sings. In the Book of John, Jesus reminds us over and over again that He is God. He will supply the answers to all of our needs.

“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” John 8:58

Jesus is the past, the present and the future. He always was, always is and always will be. He is the everlasting God. Throughout John’s Gospel He continues to repeat this message. “ I AM” the bread of life (6:35), the Light of the world (8:12, 9:5),  the Door (10:7), the Good Shepherd (10:11,14), the Resurrection and the Life (11:25), the Way and the Truth and the Life (14:6), the Vine (15:1)

If your soul needs nourishment, feed it with His Bread. If darkness is closing in around you, let Him be the Light to guide you out. Looking for a new beginning? He will be the Door. Feeling lost and alone? The Good Shepherd will be your comfort. Your life can be renewed by His death and resurrection. You will find real life in the great I AM. He is the Way. He is the Truth. He is the Life. Is there a storm on the horizon? Become rooted deep in the Vine and you will remain standing.

I pray for our amazing, delightful, loving daughter, Lauren, this morning. May God continue to guide, bless, nourish and comfort her with His transforming love, into all of the gifts He has planned for her. She is one of our greatest gifts! Happy Birthday Lulu!

Dear Jesus,

Our greatest gift is knowing You. Thank you for being all things to us. Give our daughter, Lauren, a special blessing on this special day. Thank you for the families and friends you give us. Show us how to treasure them every single day. You will provide us with everything we need.

Amen