Oct. 5, 2010 - Abide in Me
By Rose McCormick Brandon Most days, I read one to three chapters of the Bible. But some days, I don’t get beyond a few words. Today I read, “Abide in Me” (John 15:4, NKJV). These three, little, power-packed words stopped me in my tracks. I’ve been busy with many projects — a house to pack up for a big move, articles to write, goodbyes, visits, new phones and address changes. I’m also planning messages for an upcoming retreat. All good activities, all necessary, but they draw me into a whirlwind. My thoughts scan a never-ending to-do list, desperate to scribble checkmarks. “Abide in Me.” Those words drew me away from necessities and back to the essential — my relationship with God. Abide means to live. I can make myself at home in God. In all my present activities, I can find rest, perhaps not for my body but for my inner self, the part of me that generates the most unrest. Rest comes best to me when I pause to consider the marvels of creation. The structure of a simple leaf, the grooves in the rocks I collected for my garden, flowers that bloom in ditches. Beauty is everywhere, beauty that reminds us the Creator is calling out, “Abide in Me.” The Creator of all this invites you and me to breathe deeply in Him. The secret to enjoying God is living life in Him. Today, let these three words, “Abide in Me,” draw you into joy. — Rose McCormick Brandon writes personal experience essays, Bible studies, news articles, profiles and devotionals from her home in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. |
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