“We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is, knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out.” Ray Bradbury
In my life I can see patterns of times when I was being filled up by the Lord’s wisdom and power through the Holy Spirit, but I wasn’t necessarily pouring out. Time spent reading my Bible, in prayer and at prayer meetings, and worshiping through music have and will continue to be part of my relationship with the Lord. Although, when spiritually filling acts become all that is my relationship with the Lord, I find myself becoming like a fat sponge which is full of water but quite frivolous and downright messy when put into action.
As I read it became clear that I too was struggling in a very similar way. In bouts of selfishness frustrating thoughts of not wanting to love others would creep into my mind. For example, I enjoy living with Abby C, but there are plenty of other Christians in CU. Why can't they show her love, why am I living with her to constantly serve her? These thoughts are sinful and disgusting. I am to love her because Christ first loved me. Just as I am not a deserving recipient of His love, neither is Abby C. It is out of an outpouring of my love for Christ that I show her love. All too often I find myself caught in a trap of attending Bible study, CU, church, Bible Courses and doing my devotions all filling myself, but never tipping over to share with others.
So how does this relate to Abby C. waking up late? After reading Anna's blog I prayed I would have opportunities to show Abby C. love in a tangible manner. Prayer request answered! Seeing the disappointment on her face and realizing I had an opportunity to show her love, I jumped out of bed explaining we would get here there. Telling her to pack her clothes and get ready, I explained I would make her lunch and breakfast. Scrambled eggs and toast along with a sack lunch were ready and waiting as she entered the kitchen. It was a joy to serve her in this manner and show her Christ's love.
Last week Larry didn't join us for church as he wasn't feeling well. Figuring it was most likely a common cold I dismissed the topic. Today Sandlin explained Larry has cancer and hits very low points becoming quite ill. News of Larry's illness saddened my heart. Although it's only been 2 months, it feels as though I've known him much longer. I've yet to hear Larry complain about a single thing, as his small stature off displays a bright smile. Unfortunately, the news progressed from bad to worse as Sandlin explained Gretta is suffering from depression due to such gloomy weather. Usually one wouldn't think someone of Irish descent would struggle with this, as you would assume they are used to the weather. However, it drags and wears on Gretta's precious heart. The combination of her dear Larry battling cancer and the gloomy weather brooding in has got to be an awful struggle.
It may sound as though church was quite sad, but in fact it was grand. There were many delicious biscuits and desserts after church including Rachael's famous chocolate cake which is absolutely scrumptious! Speaking of food, Arturo and I caught up a bit while having or tea and biscuits after the sermon. Explaining his love for cooking I invited him over to cook anytime he'd like. Seeing as though I love Mexican food, but have no skill or knowledge of authentic Mexican dishes why not enjoy company. Gladly accepting the offer I believe we're about to have a fiesta!
Arriving at church early and waking up late didn't give me time to finish my devotions. With my 40 minutes prior to the service I resided upstairs in a quiet hallway to read Matthew. What a blessing to hear the worship band play below singing praises and enjoying fellowship. Moments like these I feel an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude for my church family. Finishing my devotion making my way back downstairs Sinead asked where I had been. Telling her I was doing my devo she burst into laughter making fun of the word devo. Apparently they don't say devo over here. She thought as though I sounded like a gangster and laughed throughout the sermon about the word devo. Sinead has named me the devo diva. I guess it works for me : )
Joanie, Arturo and I discussed a few differences in culture between, Mexicans, Americans and the Irish. Probably the funniest were Joanie's slang. She told me "you are gas craic all together"....I am what!?! She went on to explain it means I am just crazy fun. I suppose in my mother's words it would be similar to saying "you're just a hoot, or a riot"
Oh geez it's 10pm and Abby C. and I are running at 5:45am, time for bed!
With Love from Galway
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