Daily Digest #249

Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called. —Ephesians 4:1

The reflection above made me look up for the meaning of my name! Hehe. Joanne = God is gracious. And indeed, He has, from the moment I wake up, until I lay down to sleep. I wasn't a morning person before, but now I am able to greet everyone "good morning" with a smile. And rarely do I feel sick in the morning nowadays. Before, I had to make excuses just so I wouldn't get out of bed. But God has taught me that every day offers a brand new opportunity to change, to do good, to love, and be happy. And when the night falls, He makes me realize the things I have gone through for the past hours I've been awake, and gives me a chance to repent for my shortcomings and thank Him for the lessons I have learned.

Just yesterday, I was reminded how unfair the world is sometimes. Society teaches us to deal with our own problems, to be strong enough to stand on our own. But I can't deny the fact that I have this hunger for fellowship and friendship with other people. It does hurt when I make myself available to people who are just too busy with other matters. I asked God what would Jesus do, and He reminded me of how I should be more patient and kind despite of how I others are to me. He made me understand that I cannot make people love or like me -- only love them the best I can and hope that I will be loved back. And He assured me that when I long for love in my life, I can always depend on Him. After that, I felt much better. I guess I just needed a different perspective.

I had to look for the "When I Say I'm A Christian" poem again by Maya Angelou (read below). May it serve as a reminder to us. May we grow a heart like Jesus Christ. Pray always.

When I Say I'm A Christian

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean living'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
And need Christ to be my guide.

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
Asking humbly to be taught.

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I'm loved.

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!