By Jo Burkhardt, 3.16.22
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When I was praying about what to share for this devotion, two things popped in my mind.
One is a bible verse, and one is a lyric from a Journey song.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” John 14:1
I didn’t grow up practicing Lent, but as an adult I was led to the idea of sacrificing something for Lent. With all the things I tried to give up, the act was more of an exercise. The one thing I had, that would truly be a sacrifice, was my time.
Jesus showed us multiple times how important taking time away to spend with God was critical for Him to continue His path towards the ultimate sacrifice in order to save our souls.
I chose to devote the early, dark hours of the morning to spend time with God in prayer, reflection, quiet and belief. By giving up time, I gained more than words can describe.
Through some of the most devastating, fearful and agonizing times in my life, I knew I was not alone. In looking back, and even in the midst of it all, I could see God’s hand at work, orchestrating. Even when the outcome was not the desired outcome, nor the outcome I cried out for, I believed Jesus was walking with me and holding my hand. Believing is the only way I know how to get through the storms of life, and I choose to believe my Lord always shows up.
I end with one of my mother’s favorite quotes: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” Hold fast to your belief in Christ, dance, and “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feelin’…”