The waters saw you, O God, the waters saw you and writhed; the very depths were convulsed. The clouds poured down water, the skies resounded with thunder; your arrows flashed back and forth. Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind, your lightning lit up the world; the earth trembled and quaked. Your path led through the sea, your way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen. Psalm 77:16-19
I’ve been doing quite a bit of walking in recent days touring college campuses. With guides and groups its easy to settle back, enjoy the company and hear about great things taking place on the various campuses. Much as life, becoming complacent toward the presence of Christ in me is worth being particularly mindful.
It’s easy to think that Christ is walking or sitting or sharing in fellowship with others through my conversations. But the evidence of the reality of His presence is difficult to find at times, and not just on these tours. But for instance, when walking alone on the beach and taking a glance behind to see only my footprints. Or as I talk in the garden and listen for His voice I hear only the sounds of my neighbors mower. Or more lonely, I stand in line at the bank and wait for the next teller and no one is standing with me.
Imagine what it would be like to walk in the garden with Him or stand in line at the bank with Him. And what would it be like to pick a flower with Him or repair a hole in the wall with Him or have Him help me clean the garage. Oh how it would change my thoughts if I could see just one of His footprints in the sand.
But the joy of The Lord in His strength is found not only WITH me — but the fact that He can be found IN me! There is comfort in not questioning His presence, but believing through faith in the promise of His presence in me. God has promised to reside in my heart as I have also “hidden His word in my heart.” And John states that that “the Word was with God and the Word was God!” This means God in me!
Thank you Lord for taking up residence in my heart — in my life. Thank you for the moments of unexpected fellowship as well as moments of planned conversations. Remind me in the tough moments when I neglect your presence and your inescapable longing to spend time with me to ping my spirit back to you!