A Living Sanctuary

I hope that I never stop being amazed by the people in my life.

I cannot remember the last time a day went by that I wasn't absolutely astounded by someone.

Honestly. I can't really find the words to express how very blessed I am.

It's absolutely amazing. There is so much going on in my heart right now. I am struggling with disappointment, pain, anger and guilt. There is a lot of warfare going on in my heart, and I am often bested by my pride. I often find myself struggling just to keep my footing.

And I am constantly being reminded to stop fighting for my footing. Sometimes in words, actions, prayers, and sometimes just the mere presence of the people in my life? I am reminded to give up my footing and fall to my knees.

I am astounded. Humbled. Awed. Inspired by the clarity of Jesus in people. By the strength of his presence in their lives. By their willingness to deny themselves and let him love through them.

By their willingness to refuse to walk away from me, in all my sin and failure, and love me like Christ.

I am struggling. And, more than anything else, I struggle to find my worth in God alone. I want so badly to define myself by the way others treat me. And that leads to a lot of selfishness, defensiveness, and feigned strength on my part.

And, without fail, God always speaks to me in those moments. Usually through those around me. God so gently draws me back to him.

There are no huge revelations today. I have not come to any great conclusions, or anything particularly profound.

Today, I am simply grateful for the people God has blessed me with. I am grateful that I am surrounded by people who love Jesus well. Who love me well. Who are humble and wise, and who teach me how to love Jesus better.

I'm grateful to be surrounded by people who point me back to Jesus when I so desperately want to turn away. Who love me in all my imperfections, and are grateful for my imperfect love in return.

I'm grateful for the chance to share my heart with people, and for people who share their hearts with me.

Love is such a gift. I'm grateful for God's willingness to work through me, through the people around me, to teach us all more about that love. For using imperfect people to draw us nearer to a perfect God.

Talk about a living Gospel.

God is so good.