Morning Devotional

After an amazing weekend with 6 incredible young adults from EOCC, I came home and  found myself at Northern Lights sitting with two families who lost or were in the process of losing a loved one. During my time with one of the families a passage from this weekend, Jeremiah 31, came to mind out of their grief. ;“I have loved you with an everlasting love.”  This led to a conversation, almost a mini service. right there at the hospital.
     
When Jesus was to leave the disciples He said; "it is good for you that I leave, because unless I leave, I cannot send my Spirit who will lead you into full communion, to the full truth, to the full betrothal." (or engagement) Jesus knew that those He loved would be happier in life with the Holy Spirit.
     
Jesus' concern for His disciples is still prevalent today. Jesus came to show us the Father, His love and His vision to tell us that we are beloved by God the Father.  Even before you were born, Jeremiah says God knew and loved you. God's love preceded anything you have experienced and He will continue to love you after your physical passing. This is your identity now. You are a child of God from before you were born through, well, forever. As the scripture puts it from eternity to eternity. 
     
​The weekend with our young adults talked about pausing, giving thanks even in the tough moments, and the noisiness of this world. Pause, and know we are God's children first. He loved us first before everything else. If you are struggling, hurting, or confused take time and look at creation and know that God loves you now and always will. Even death cannot take that away so let our lives say thank you in all situations. God bless, Pastor Carl
      
Father, may all honor be Yours on this day. May my lips and actions glorify Your name. Lord, as I come before you this morning, awaken my call to serve. Help me see your presence in all the happenings around me. Lord, I know in my heart Your love is beyond measure and Your concern for my well being is real. May I take to heart Your teachings and commands as they are for my own good. Lord, I pray for the children of this world who are not getting the opportunity to learn about a love that runs deeper than what we can know otherwise. Father, forgive me in my sinfulness, may I not judge others lest I be judged. Lord, I thank you for the many You have surrounded me with that reminds me of Your grace. Thank you for Jesus as it is in His name I pray. Amen