I have finally got my new , chunky, “Rough and Tough”, tradies phone, I think I’ve traded up! No more sticky tape keeping the battery in!

I haven’t done this in ages! Enjoying Violet Crumble and French Vnilla ice cream from In The Pink while basking in the glory of God’s creation and feeling at peace being alone (except for all the dirty sea gulls of course). (at Lennox Beach)

I’m grateful for YOU

So often I try to justify my discontentment, especially since my life since November last year has been horrible, probably the worst 8 months ever. I reached 3 and ½ years in chronic pain and reached my highest weight ever. I felt like I’d lost everything important to me. I’ve been unemployed, left some and I failed at study as I moved back home, mooching of my family and held the stereotype that has. I’m sad I’ve left my good friends behind in Sydney, I’ve been rejected and felt isolated. Reuniting with family in February and old friends has been the only constellation.

Nearly halfway through the year, I can now see that constellation was not a constellation at all. How ungrateful I’d been. I’ve realised the reality is that I am loved. But it’s real, true (and almost unconditional) love. My friends and family have continued to love me and persevere with me despite the inconvenience and trouble I can be. I realised I have more close friends than I can count. So many wonderful ladies who have been continually supportive, empathetic and non-judgemental. They’ve listened to me and given me wise advice. I’ve laughed and laughed and cried and then laughed some more. I’ve been able to have Skype dates, Facebook chats, coffee dates, dinner dates, chocolate feasts, movie marathons and phone conversations. Really. How blessed am I. When I’ve been in my darkest moments God has continued to provide light in the form of family and friends.

And how could I forget unconditional love from my wonderful creator and king? His never ending grace and kindness has never faulted.

I AM grateful. I MUST be grateful. Because in all the darkness, God has given me light. This light is not at the end of the tunnel, but throughout as my frends and family help me hold onto hope and grow as I eagerly await the New Creation. No more sickness, no more sadness, no more sin.

I was very excited to walk into my SRE classroom and the teacher has used the guide dog from last weeks lesson on the whiteboard for all to see! “ Gods love reaches gher than the heavens” YIPPIE!

A party and event today – I’m all ready! Praying my pain can go away for a few hours do I can get through. #Facepainting #balloonanimals #parties

Judgemental

After Joseph was betrayed horrifically by his brothers, I was amazed and challenged by his attitude. After being sold as a slave because of their jealousy, Joseph finds himself second in charge over all of Egypt and after his father dies, his brothers begs for forgiveness.

Joseph’s response is surprising, “Don’t be afraid. Do I act for God? Don’t you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now—life for many people. Easy now, you have nothing to fear; I’ll take care of you and your children.” (Genesis 50:19-20, MSG)

It is not my job to judge anyone, even those who hurt, deceive an stab me in the back. That’s Gods job. The only thing I am required to do is forgive and to continue to forgive and forgive some more. It’s easy to look down on others based on their looks, actions, relationships, attitudes, clothes, wealth (or lack of), belongings, technology, beliefs, words, hobbies, talents, accidents and deliberate wrong doings. The list goes on. However, I find it refreshing that it’s not up to me to "make sure justice is done” – the only one who should be doing that is out loving, merciful and gracious creator.

Forgive, don’t judge – pretty please.

Reflections on Genesis 32

Genesis 32:9-10 (MSG)“And then Jacob prayed, “God of my father Abraham, God of my father Isaac, God who told me, ‘Go back to your parents’ homeland and I’ll treat you well.’ I don’t deserve all the love and loyalty you’ve shown me. When I left here and crossed the Jordan I only had the clothes on my back, and now look at me—two camps!”

This is just before the well known story when Jacob wrestles with God. Jacob is fearing for his life and the life of his family and livestock – the brother he betrayed and stole from is headed his way. He sets a plan in motion, sending his camps and family ahead. 

This prayer reminded me of Gods unconditional grace and that I must come before him humble. Like Jacob, I don’t deserve all the love and loyalty God has shown me. Yet, despite my depravity and disobedience, Jesus allowed me to receive the ultimate blessing; perfect peace and a relationship with my creator (Romans 5:8). This part of Gods nature, offering us undeserved favour, is continually revealed throughout history.

I praise my Creator for the blessing of being loved and chosen to have an untainted relationship with him, even though, like Jacob I don’t deserve it.