Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15: 5,6 (NASB)
A community sat together today, sorrow unifying us as family members, friends, and classmates. Eyes searched for understanding, whispered words lingered, tissues were passed, and then silence fell over the pews. Solemn respect gathered in this difficult place. And we sang as the organ music resonated throughout the church. Hymns of hope joined our voices, despite our differences, and made beautiful harmony… God’s music healed! It stirred something deep within our souls and lifted each broken heart.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see.
We were challenged to love others…to be a neighbor! I wondered what that may look like…one wretch to another. Do we only love those who look like we do? Those with similar beliefs? Are we willing to go where we may be uncomfortable? Or do we sit in our safe seats of mediocracy, our fears hindering the gathering? Opportunities are missed for friendship. And hidden treasures slip through our hands. We miss our chance to love…God’s way!
I reminded myself of my past lost-ness… blindness…and lack of vision. The cleansing I had needed…the washing away of my messy muck. What a wretch I had been! Could I dare to join with others like me? God had provided an ocean of grace for me. Could I do the same? Friendship required truth bearing, laying aside our masks, pretenses, and being real. It meant sharing the weight of heartache, and what our sorrow stemmed from. No more games and no more hiding. Honesty was within our reach! Being a neighbor meant offering my authentic self to another … a wretch in need of forgiveness and salvation! It was time to be vulnerable and make time for grace….what a sweet sound!
‘Tis grace has brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me Home.
The melody lingered as the storm drew close and I drove home. It seemed fitting all of creation was mourning this day. Dark clouds threatened and the rain fell hard throughout the afternoon. Heaven’s tears fell steady, leaving their evidence of grief. And I was struck how God in his infinite greatness, stooped down to comfort His children. We were not alone. And His music gave me courage, hope still stood in the midst of our suffering.
The Lord has promised good to me His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be, As long as life endures.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like you and I! May we not miss the opportunity for friendship, and let hidden treasures slip through our hands. Be a neighbor and live God’s love…His way!
With love and grace,
Lily Mae
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