COFFEE ON THE DOCK

I like really BIG things. I'm not sure why huge objects are so attractive to the human soul. Oceans, glaciers, mountains, elephants, crowds, overstuffed chairs, super-sized football players. I also like very small things. They evoke interest, draw my attention, call for careful handling. God is, at once, very big and very small. Almighty God, You are awesome in ALL You do; teach me Your ways o Lord.

The forgiveness of God is undiminished by my constant downfalls; He is forbearing and compassionate beyond description. While I am duty bound to obey His will, more importantly, I want to do so, being inspired to try harder by His enduring mercies. My unruliness is being overcome by His unrelenting goodness. Oh sweet Lord, You lack nothing, yet patiently provide for our daily need.

Exploring new possibilities is a part of the human condition that is an attribute of our Creator. Every person is born with an inward passion for learning, problem solving and adventure. If these characteristics never fall under the daily guidance of divine superintendence, we will waste our lives wandering around in a personal wilderness. Lord God our Creator, corral my expeditions to Your perfect will.

Another friend has slipped into eternity. I never get used to this. As genuine believers walk through the valley of shadows there are many lessons, but none more important than this: there is nothing more precious than trust in God. Whether delayed or swift, death is ultimately swallowed in victory for those assured by faith. Father, in Your appointed moment, my soul will ascend in pure delight.

Every second is precious, an irreplaceable gift of time. I desire to make wise and effective use of this day. Without God’s help this would be Impossible, but the gift of new opportunity to act is accompanied with a daily allotment of grace, wisdom and opportunity. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Teach me Your ways each moment. Thank You for another lap.

We each spend countless hours planning things that never happen. In fact, most of what has actually occurred in my life I never planned at all.  I am at peace with that, having mostly accepted that God establishes my steps. I will not cease making new plans, but will hold them loosely, knowing that God is in control. Father, what comfort there is in leaning into Your arms. You work all things for our good.

Like sand slipping through the hourglass, each moment quickly slips into the past. I feel the sting of lost opportunities, mistakes and unchangeable past events. An eternal perspective rotates the impulse of our lives; instead of dwelling on the past, we are pulled toward an unlimited future filled with hope. What is behind becomes a footnote as eternal purpose unfolds. Eternal Father, I joyfully move forward.