Riverbend Chimes In

Just a little somethin' from the Riverbend...

Had a great time Sunday night. On top of the great food, we had a cool object lesson from Janet to illustrate the passage. She placed a few shells in a clear container representing our lives. Then poured in water to represent God's presence. Then, with Mackenzie's assistance, other shells were added to represent the "self" stuff we add in. Worry about work, finances, future, relationships, material stuff, etc. We all chimed in our own suggestions. Soon, the "self stuff" began to displace the water, crowding out God's presence. A vivid picture of what the emptying of self can make room for in one's life if we are willing, and what the focusing on self can crowd out.

It's a challenge to be empty of oneself, especially when we percieve we are "owed." Jesus, truly deserving His place as God, chose to empty Himself for us. It's another level of His suffering that we don't often consider. As lent is here and we often focus on the physical pain He endured, it's sobering for me to consider the mental and emotional humiliation He went through. We can all identify, being at some time or another denied a place in life that we felt was truly ours.

Perhaps we will never truly understand what was endured for us on the cross, and even in Jesus' day to day life. It's humbling to be given a gift so huge I will never be able to fathom it.

Love to all the Origins fam. Dwayne and the kids and I will be visiting family for Easter and will miss you all terribly. We love you.