Some days it hits me harder than others, how darkness attacks our children. Teaching at the school, I become so invested in each child – not to mention my own. I want them so badly to flourish in what is good. However, every day I’m reminded that we are in a battle. Each one of us has to fight for what is good and pure… and some days, well, it can feel pretty hopeless. We are absolutely bombarded with distractions and selfish desires and narratives that promote ‘me’ – everything is always about ‘me’ and what I want. It is so disheartening because I know that a life centered on self is a very lonely life.

I know that the distractions of this world are simply distractions, but I wonder if there is any place our children can be where they are safe from these attacks… is there any place any of us can go where we aren’t tempted and subjected to vulgar language and habits…

And then this weekend, I heard it… “There is a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God. A place where sin cannot molest, near to the hear to God.” 

It is a beautiful old hymn – and the words reminded me of our sanctuary. There is a place where sin cannot corrupt us and tempt us and molest us – we need only to live near to the heart of God. Our children have a sanctuary; we all have a sanctuary. One that does not depend on location but on surrender. Every person’s journey on this earth will look different, but what we are all given the same opportunity no matter our circumstance – there is a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God.

Thank You Jesus. 

Philippians 3:12-16 (The Message)

I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward – to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back. So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision – you’ll see it yet! Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it!

Near to the heart of God…. Amen!

And a couple pics from the beautiful snow this morning – no, I’m not a big fan of spring snow, but Praise God! It was beautiful! – and the puppies are growing so fast – these pics are already a few days old and the puppies continue to grow so fast.