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New Chapter, Same Book
This is a historical time for my church. Tonight is the last service in the old building. Next weekend’s services will be in our beautiful new building. Saturday night, I felt an overwhelming sadness that has yet to go away. I asked people who have been there much longer than me if they were sad. One response was “No, I am thankful!” I told myself that just because I am sad doesn’t mean I am not thankful. So much has happened within those walls which has shaped who I am today. When I was devastated over the Terri Schiavo incident, I immediately went to the altar. When I have been heartbroken, happy, excited, whatever, I wanted to be in that sanctuary. I know the church is not the building, yet God speaks so clearly to me in that room. This is a big deal for many people, including me. A chapter has ended, and a new one begins.
This morning, God brought this verse to my heart from Ecclesiates 5:
20 He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart.
The Amplified Bible says it this way:
For he shall not much remember [seriously] the days of his life, because God [Himself] answers and corresponds to the joy of his heart [the tranquillity of God is mirrored in him].
One word makes all the difference. “Seriously”. It’s fine to remember, reflect, and rejoice the past blessings God has given, but we must remember God is going with us into the new life phase. We are not leaving Him behind in this transition. Sure, it is a brand new chapter in our lives, but the book of walking with Him is the same.’
Shelly is a 30 something year old licensed therapist with cerebral palsy who is transitioning onto a whole new path in her life. As someone who was never limited by her disability, through recent declines in her health and abilities, God is humbling her despite her stubborn resistance. She is closer to Jesus than she ever has been as He carries her with His strength, protects her with His armor, and empowers her with His Spirit.She uses her writing and speaking gifts to fulfill her ultimate purpose of bringing glory to God through her life.
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