Living Life for Christ Alone

I had something else I was working on writing (which hopefully I will finish next week), but in lieu of my birthday, I thought I would write a little something to honor the One who created me, pursued me, and won my heart and life over to Himself.  I was singing "All I have is Christ" this morning and it got me thinking about my personal story and the many ways God has stepped in to turn the course of my life forever towards Him.  // "I once was lost in darkest night, yet thought I knew the way," the song begins.    // From the outside, you wouldn't have thought me to be very lost. I was a very good child. I was pretty good about learning from other's mistakes and making better choices than they did.  I knew how to obey the rules, too. And growing up in a Christian family and in church, one would have thought me a good Christian.  But I was quiet. No one knew my thoughts, because I didn't voice them.  People only knew some  of the good desires I h...

“Look into my eyes,” I say.   She looks as though her world is about to fall apart. She can’t seem to bring herself to look up. Does she doubt my love? Does she think she knows better than I? Does she really believe I don’t want what’s best for her?   I crouch down and get eye level with her. “Look into my eyes,” I repeat.   She just glances into them, but then her eyes continue to look around the room. She seems to think her life is ruined. Crocodile tears stream down her cheeks.   I know differently. Her life is not ruined. We are heading in the right direction. She’s growing. She’s learning. I haven’t left her. I’m still right here, and I plan to stay by her side while she grows and learns.   “No, no... Look into my eyes, and keep looking,” I say.   Finally, her little blue eyes meet mine. This time, she doesn’t look away. Her eyes soften. She realizes I do love her. Whatever I was saying seems to make it past that sound barrier that makes my words sound...