January #jammed : Grace in Life’s Face

Day 23 Receive Relief.

“But now, for a brief moment, the Lord our God has been gracious in leaving us a remnant and giving us a firm place in his sanctuary, and so our God gives light to our eyes and a little relief in our bondage.” Ezra 9:8

Winter break turned into “PJ Days.” I’ve never spent so many hours in my pajamas as I did those days my daughers didn’t have school around Christmastime. Normally very busy and extremely social, it was odd to let the hours slip by without leaving the house. But as the days went by, we didn’t feel lazier or less useful. We felt energized, renewed, and thankful.

“An increase in light means vitality and joy.” (NIV Notes)

Life zips by if we don’t seize moments to slow down. Ezra writes of a time when a remnant of God’s people returned to rebuild the temple. (NIV Notes) They had been in exile, but God had “firm place” for them. A place of refuge and promise of return.

When we have run ragged with the world for too long, it can feel like exile. But the refreshing feeling of reconnecting with our Father is soul filling. Jesus came to earth and walked amoung us to save a place of respite for our souls. His birth represents our place. His death ended our exile. With authority over all earth and seated by His Father, a place …our name …is known.

Grace allows life a pause to receive relief.

Father, Praise You for Your perfect plan for our lives, and thank You for sending Your Son to take the place our sins’ punishment. We confess we do not always stop to thank and praise you, and pray that You bless our souls with the receive the relief of Your grace. In Jesus Name, Amen.

 When is the last time you spent the whole day in your pjs? Get the conversation started by commenting below, and let’s encourage one another as we face life in 2017 armed with grace! 

#greatgrace17

Happy Receiving,

Megs

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