Wonder is the ability to see God's creation with fresh eyes and to appreciate its beauty with a sense of awe. When you cultivate wonder in your life, you are able to experience the world more fully and deeply. You open yourself to growth, learning and new possibilities. In the Bible, there are many miraculous works of God in the Old Testament that I would call wonders. In the New Testament, in coming to know Jesus and His wisdom and power, there is much to ponder and be in awe of. I can't help but think of yesterday's gospel reading (Year A - John 4:5-42) and the sense of wonder that was felt by Photina, the woman at the well, when she realized she was speaking with Jesus, the Messiah she was longing for. Through Jesus' pursuit of her, she experienced a profound conversion, opening herself to growth and new possibilities. In her newfound zeal, she leaves her water jars behind, much like the fishermen leave their nets when they discover who Jesus is. She is overflowing with God's grace as she invites her people to “Come and see” the Messiah. Jesus is pursuing you in the same way. He is thirsting for your heart, your salvation, your trust in Him, your happiness. He does not wait for us to have it all together. Actually, it seems He prefers your mess, your broken heart, your sadness, your failures. He meets you where you are at and reveals himself in simplicity and truth. The woman said to him, "I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ; when he comes, he will tell us everything." Jesus said to her, "I am he, the one who is speaking with you." ~John 4:25-26 This is where simplicity and wonder intersect so beautifully in this story of Jesus and Photina (and you and me). Both simplicity and wonder require a willingness to let go of control, to open the mind/heart, to be fully present and to embrace uncertainty, as Photina so perfectly displayed. When you encounter something new and wondrous, as she did in Jesus, you cannot always predict or control your reaction to it. Similarly, when you simplify your life, you must be willing to let go of things that may feel important or familiar, for the truth that will set you free. Watch this short clip from "The Chosen" where Jesus meets Photina, the woman at the well. As you watch, look for the simplicity of Jesus and the wonder in the eyes of Photina as she learns who Jesus is.
spiritual As you think of the story of the woman at the well, ask yourself these questions and take a moment to journal (written or spoken) on what pops up in your heart. Do you believe Jesus is who He says He is? How can you identify with the woman at the well? What is holding you back from accepting God's love? How is God pursuing you? About 30 years ago, my husband went to a "Promise Keepers" conference in Texas. He brought home a cassette tape with some praise and worship songs on it that we listened to pretty regularly. One of the songs engraved a special place in my soul and I have found myself singing it interiorly and out loud almost daily as a reminder of who God is and my desire to come to know Him. It's sung so beautifully by Steffany Gretzinger on her most recent album. Click the link to listen: More Precious than Silver Lord, you are more precious than silver. Lord, you are more costly than gold. Lord, you are more beautiful than diamonds. And nothing I desire compares with You.
self Review your Lenten sacrifices and recommit to doing without.... (coffee, alcohol, bread, sugar, snacks, etc) ....do it for JESUS.
It's only 40 days and you are almost halfway there! Keep moving forward...
It's not too late to write your Lenten plan down if you have not already done it. Simply print this little postcard out and jot down your commitments to grow closer to Christ...
There are so many great CATHOLIC inspired exercise options out there to help you get at least 40 minutes of intentional movement each and every day. Check out Pietra Fitness! Pietra Fitness
service Follow the lead of Photina today and proclaim the love and mercy of God to someone. It could be a family member, friend or complete stranger. You have the truth, given to you by Jesus, and are called to share it. Be not afraid, for you are His hands and feet.
today's recipe BAKED OATMEAL This is so good! I (or my kids) make this regularly for breakfast. We like to eat it warm with fresh fruit and/or yogurt. 1⁄2 cup butter, melted 1⁄2 cup organic coconut sugar (can use sucanat or brown sugar) 1 cup Whole Milk (can use coconut milk or oat milk) 1⁄2 cup yogurt, plain or vanilla 1 Tbsp cinnamon 3 cups rolled oats 2 Tbsp ground flaxseed 2 eggs, beaten 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 - 2 apples, peeled and diced (optional - but recommended) Directions Mix melted butter, sugar, milk, yogurt, cinnamon, oats and flaxseed until combined. (You can let this sit overnight if you want) Add eggs, baking powder and salt. Fold in apples last. Preheat oven to 350 and bake in a greased 9x13 pan for 25-30 min or until set. Top with yogurt and berries.
Thank you for following along. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or comments. katie@integratedlife.co If you are enjoying SIMPLE40, please share with a friend. Click the link to sign up. It's never too late! SIMPLE40
Comments