Associate

I had to make an early evening run to the grocery store...out of orange juice and ran into a guy who I have not seen in ages. We have mutual friends who have moved to San Antonio and the first thing I asked when I saw him was....have you seen our friends? And the conversation began. It was a good and quick visit and I was so glad to see him. You know those people that you run into that leave you smiling...he is a big guy with a jovial personality and I left thinking I was glad to see him and catch up for a minute.

Associations....we make them consciously and unconsciously...We have association through mutual friends, through similar stories, through trials as well as successes....and like trials. These mutual friends that I mentioned above were old friends of each of ours and the mention of "their" name immediately brought our lives into one arena. It didn't matter how long it had been since we had seen each other...what mattered is who the precious friends were that we had in common....that was our link. He asked what Mel and I were up to, he said he had seen my husband recently but didn't have a chance to shake hands....and when he asked what we were up to my immediate response was that we are happy and proud grandparents....and that took us on a complete other rabbit trail.

I left wondering however, and wishing that I would have brought up another friend who may or may not be of mutual interest. At least mentioning his name...God..in conjunction with my writing or something...but I DIDN'T. I know that sounds corny....but we are around people all the time who name drop...and play the "who's who" game but there is no name of the face of this earth or in this world that holds more power, more significance, or has done greater deeds that our God. But I don't know about you but I am often so hesitant to mention His name especially to people who I don't know too well and who surely don't know me to well. What if they do not have that same association..well, I am learning so what if they don't....I might be the only one who gives them a change to hear about our awesome God. I verge on not wanting to be held in contempt as being one of those "Christian" fanatics and throwing someone else in an uncomfortable position. But God has not taught me to hold our friendship/relationship at bay...and to keep it a secret from those who may not have heard of him. I am to share his story...even if it is just a passing credit and appreciation...and shine in the light of His glory. So how do I pull his name up in casual conversation when someone is asking "light" questions....and the answer is give them a "light" answer. One that shows association with my friend Christ but is not so heavy and with need of response.

I could have responded that "right now I have taken on the challenge of reading the bible on 90 days and it is an absolutely amazing story that I had no idea I would ever get through. It is so cool to really see how God was then and how he is now....and all the in betweens....and then leave it." Either he asks questions or we roll into another arena of conversation...I could have said that GOD has blessed us with these precious grandchildren...or we are blessed with good health so far....anything that would have associated me with God. I have to be true to this relationship with God that I cherish. And I have to ask myself.... "have done...or am I doing what he has asked me to do"...to pass it on! Even if it is just a seed thrown out ...it is God's seed to do with as he pleases. We are at ease when we talk of good times, vacations, recent victories, new purchases or obstacles that we have overcome...but in reality God is the one who has allowed each of those events to take place...and HE is seldom credited for his achievements. Just think about it...I do it all the time...

Luke 8:16
[ A Lamp on a Stand ] "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.

I should want people to know that I am associated with a KING....not our of pride but rather out of humility....he picked me in spite of my weaknesses and flaws. And everyday I see Him working to transform my life and grow me up. He is a friend who I am so proud of, and am learning to be more and more dependent on...a friend who is constant....a friend who loves without conditions...a friend who is there when others seem to disappear...a friend who is comforting and present....a friend who knows all the "right" answers and is filled with wisdom and has a power that strengthens any who call upon his name. He is a friend who is willing to lead me in a direction that is worthy and filled with purpose. Now why wouldn't I want to share a friend like that with someone who may not know how great he is. There is enough of God to go around....we don't have to be possessive....or hold fast to Him thinking that if we share Him he will lose sight of us in the shuffle of others. The greater His kingdom...the greater ability he Has to show the world just how awesome he is.

You know what it feels like when someone shares a story with you that recounts a mighty deed that God has done...it gives you hope and encouragement. It serves as a reminder that God is able...to do anything...in our lives as well...if only we are faithful to his calling. My friend, who I saw last night lives alone and just maybe someone who would have been interested in hearing something that had merit instead of idle chatter. Something that he might investigate for His life. There will surely be a next time...and I pray that God will give me courage to speak up, if only a mention of His name, on His behalf and not let his light sit idle in my heart when I am in the midst of someone who just may hungry to meet a new friend. We never know what someone else is going through or the trials they may be juggling...but what we do know is that God is available for any of us at any time...to help us in any situation. We only have to make a "heart" appointment at any time to meet him and allow him to be our associate.

God is the common link that brings each of his children to one united focus...and that is on Him...I have been linked and so have you...but he wants that circle to expand and grow and continue to grow...For that circle represents a light that only shines brighter as it grows.

Dear Lord, I am crazy about you...in every way and the more I read of all your doings in the Old Testament...the greater my understanding is of your dedication and compassion and love is for your people. For I have had the privilege of being taught what is to come...and how this story so far has culminated and what you have planned to come. You have allowed your presence to progress into the lives of each of us who believe in you. May we take the initiative to pass that knowledge on whenever you give us the opportunity....and help that light that you have given to us to shine on to others who may be in darkness. Amen

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www.cathyjodeit.com

The blog link below has all devotionals from the beginning of the year:

http://simplygod-cathy.blogspot.com/