How Long

2 Corinthians 5:18-20

“And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

God is moving! This morning I woke knowing He is moving.

The last couple of weeks have been rough. Graduating was a dream fulfilled and I am grateful for the gift God gave me, but (not to negate what I just said) graduating also means I need to go back to work. I have no problem working—I love working—but I also know looking for a job is not easy. With years of hiring experience under my belt, I know I must tailor each resume and cover letter for each job; I must keep my LinkedIn account updated weekly, and I have to wait. When you don’t have any income or medical coverage (and you need medicine for certain things), life becomes terrifying. Waiting to hear back from companies often becomes a battle with doubt that can feel as if God has abandoned you. He hasn’t.

For the first time, I am waiting on the Lord—really waiting. I am not trying to stress myself out finding a job. But each day that passes brings me closer to letting doubt into my life. However yesterday afternoon, I felt God tell me to keep waiting because He has something for me.  Trusting Him in a time where even my safety net is amidst her own trials is hard, and yet, I know I am doing the right thing.

Yesterday, I received a call from someone who invited me to a networking event for ministries in the Portland area who are looking to help churches reach out to those with disabilities, both visible and invisible. Even as I listened to the caller, I felt God say, “I got you and I know your heart.” The phone call was an confirmation to keep following the call I have to continue my education with disability studies in theology, art, and literature. After spending three and a half hours on thick ice last night (thank you Lord, for getting us home safely), I knew if I remained patient and vigilant, we would be okay because He is faithful and has plans for all of us who were in the car.

This morning when I read the verse of the day on my Bible app, I saw 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 and I knew God was speaking to me. He is moving and this passage confirmed it.

So why should you care about this? God is moving in your life too. His hand may be evident, but it may also be hidden. Our country is battling with hate, discrimination, and many are feeling cut off and cast out. We are called to show others Christ’s unconditional love, mercy, and grace. We are called to lift others up even when we feel weak. Our strength is not our own—it is His. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow, so make today your focus. Make the time to greet everyone with a smile; ask them how they are doing; ask if you can pray for them; ask if there is someone else who you should pray for. If you find yourself complaining, remember what is true, right, just, and beautiful and correct yourself. Write someone a letter and share the message of God’s unending love. Get on your knees and wait for God. Reconcile yourself to Him and tell others about His grace and mercy. Show them through your walk, your words, and your actions that He is a loving God who wants to hold them in His arms and never let go. Be ambassadors of mercy and listen to those who are hurting. Don’t try to fix them–you can’t–but, tell them how God has been healing you. Be ambassadors without judgement. Bless those who have less and bless those who have more. We are not alone in this world. We must be unafraid to help and unafraid to show others His love.