Redeeming the time for the days are evil

As I often do when I need to get centered, I sat at the piano this morning praying while I played. Words from hymns learned as a child are comforting in the midst of the chaos of this world.  The shocking and disrespectful actions of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi tearing up her copy of the state of the Union address by President Trump, left a deep rumble in my spirit and I needed to get my heart right before I proceeded with the remainder of my day.

The first song in my head was an older hymn, Jesus is Lord of All. Although I knew the tune and most of the words, I wanted to see them while I played. After locating and playing it, I moved through the hymnal, each song producing a deeper peace.  As I prayed for my heart and a right attitude, my eyes were drawn to the picture that sits on top of the piano. It depicts the cross heading towards heaven, making a way out of the flames of destruction.

Immediately the words of Jesus flooded my mind. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." (Luke 23:34) Hearing them, I chose to follow His example and in the same moment, deep compassion for those who are lost once again filled my heart.

God alone knows the eternal state of each one of us, because He alone knows our hearts.

In the moments following the state of the Union address and watching the struggle between two opposing sides, many hearts were exposed....mine included.  It's easy to cast blame in moments like these, and of course, that is exactly what the enemy of our souls wants to happen, After all, he comes only to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10a)

Scripture states clearly in Mark 3:25 "If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand." And our nation is pretty divided right now. Last night's display was just another sad example, and that concerns me for the future for my grandchildren.

But within the struggle is also clear evidence of God playing out His plan, reminding me of His mercy and encouraging me to pray for those who haven't found peace at His feet.

The Day of Jesus's return to earth draw ever closer. The enemy knows his time is short and he will continue to create havoc, seeking to steal, kill and destroy.  Oh the victory in the other half of the verse from John 10:10.  Jesus proclaiming His victory "But I have come that you may have life and " life more abundantly." (NKJV)

This place in the journey is temporary. Eternity sits on the horizon, and the King of kings and Lord of lord waits patiently for His Father's command.

We must busy ourselves with the work as well. Jesus has given clear direction in the great commission. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)

Taking my cue from the One Who loves me best,  I will choose forgiveness, I will offer grace, and I will pray that the eyes of the deceived will be made clear so that they can see the way out of deception.

May God's grace abound