My Sanctuary

"Moses had a mountain. Elijah had a cave. Daniel had an open window. Christ had Gethsemane."

Each of these men, had a special place for just them and the Father. After reading Finding your Gethsemane written by Victoria Rosa, I was inspired to write about my own special place. 

 I have fond memories of the times that I spent in the sanctuary of my home church. I would wait till all were gone and it was just me. By then the deacons had turned off the lights, so only the stained glass illuminated the aisles. After laying in silence for a short while, I would make my way over to the chocolate colored baby grand piano. After carefully opening it, I would take a deep breath and allow my piano fingers to trickle along the keys before beginning a song.

I felt in control. Why? Because if I was sad, I could cry. If I was happy, I could grin from ear to ear. If I was mellow, I would silently play. There was no one to judge me or tell me I was wrong, just me and the Lord. I recall having many conversations where I poured out my heart to my Savior. 

Looking back, I see how that period of time helped to build the relationship I now have with him. It was like our weekly date. Excitement would ooze out of me the closer Sabbath came. Not only did I vent, but I praised Him as well. He was the reason for all the good in my life and I saw that. When I prayed to him, he heard me and comforted me. Then He would teach and lead. I can' t necessarily say that I have a current special place, but I know that I will find one again when the time is right. Until then, I will hold tightly onto the one that brought me closer to my King--my Gethsemane. 

 *What is your special place?*

~Shana

Reflective Weekend

Dear God,

I get it. You gave me a pretty clear message this weekend and I didn't miss a thing. When I fall down, get back up. I need to make a habit out of drawing closer to you instead of relying on my feelings.Finally, I need to delight in your presence, especially on Sabbaths.

This was the first communion I have had in a long time. Thank you.

You love me. That is fact and I see that. I feel it, but I'm glad and reached out before I felt the warm and fuzzies. I live the principle of love.

Now take me into this new week with strength. You have promised that in your word. Ps. 28:7

Forgive me for my short comings and help me to let go of those short comings.

I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.

~Shana

In what ways has God spoken to you recently?

Creator and Redeemer

     God has spoken creation into existence and the same power is flows through the Word of God to recreate and transform us if we are willing. 

     There is truly power in the name of Jesus. For we don't have to work and slave to be transformed. We don't lack a part in the process, but our part cannot be compared to all that our Father does daily to transform our insides. 

     We marvel in the beauty of what creation is and more so what is was originally. Why? Because it is just so beautiful, awesome, majestic, breathtaking, exciting, and more than meets the eye. Well, God's redeeming power is also majestic, breathtaking, exciting and more than meets the eye. 

     Holy holy is the Lord God Almighty! 

     Each day, allow God's essence to ignite your transformation and relationship with Him. He wants to be with us. Not just here and now, but for all of eternity.

Shana