January #jammed : Grace in Life’s Face

Day 20: Growth is Good. 

“Fashion a lamp stand out of pure, hammered gold. Make it and all it’s parts- it’s base, trunk, branches, decorative buds and blossoms, and lamp cups- out of one solid piece.” Exodus 25:31

God’s people had to obey a multitude of rules, guidelines, instructions, and procedures.
What may seem nonsensical and unnecessary to us had deep meaning to God, and His people. Not privy to the death of Christ on the cross, their presence with the Father depended upon their obedience.

“…all these elements remind God’s people of His loving grace.” Exodus 15:1 commentary (VOICE)

Effective resolve to change reflects an obedient heart.

I was surprised that my daughter had not only noticed, but remembered what I’d resolved to change over the last few years: I gave up diet-pop one year; stopped watching reality tv another; trained for a marathon the next…

My mimi-me shuffled up to my desk with a blank piece of paper, and came up with her own resolutions.

1. Releve every day. (ballerina dreams…)
2. Finish the Harry Potter Book Series.
3. Play my uke chords without looking.
4. Keep trying different foods.
5. Know what time it is.

Pray, God, on the last one. Though big changes and giant dreams fuel life accomplishments, small growth prepares us for a grand life.

Today’s verse talks about a lamp stand decorated with buds and blossoms. They were patterned after the almond tree, the tree that bloomed first and lived the longest. (Dictionary of Bible Themes/NIV Notes)

Christ’s sacrifice on the cross allows God’s grace to trace every change we make and growth we endure.  Embrace the slow growth of long-winded dreams.

Father, Praise Your power to wield meaning in the mundane. Your creation is intricate and Your patience to assure our appreciation of it all is unfathomable. Thank you for teaching us in perfect time. We confess our impatience to get to our dreams, and pray for Your Spirit to calm and guide our souls. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Share a simple resolution for 2017.  Get the conversation started by commenting below, and let’s encourage one another as we face life in 2017 armed with grace! 

#greatgrace17

Happy Small-changing,

Megs

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