New Beginnings

There are a number of new beginnings around us always. This time of the year  graduates are launching new education or career opportunities. Newly weds or those that are about to be starting married life. Newborns coming into the world who are going to change Mom’s and Dad’s lives beyond their imagination. Grandparents with broad smiles pasted on their face. These are all marvelous beginnings.

Some new beginnings are not so marvelous. People loose their spouses, others move into nursing homes, loose their jobs, divorce happens and a number of other  developments change our lives and not for the better.

Max Lucado’s devotion comes Monday thru Friday. I forward it almost every day to my children and their family. Our son’s mother-in-law has been diagnosed with and started treatment for breast cancer. She’s very frightened and is searching for encouragement. She doesn’t have a close relationship with God so I include her in the email. Hopefully, Max’s devotion can give her encouragement to build a closer relationship with God. Think about your relationship with Him as you read Max’s writing for today.

I AM IS NEAR - May 19, 2022 - by Max Lucado

Jesus says to us what he said to the disciples on the stormy sea. “It is I! Don’t be afraid” (John 6:20).

The literal translation of what Jesus said is “I AM; don’t be afraid.” I AM. That’s God’s name. When we wonder if God is coming, he answers with his name, “I AM!” When we wonder if he is able, he declares, “I AM.” When we see nothing but darkness, feel nothing but doubt, and wonder if God is near or aware, the welcome answer from Jesus is this: “I AM!”

Pause for a moment and let him tell you his name. Your greatest need is his presence. Yes, you want this storm to pass. Yes, you want the winds to still. But yes, yes, yes, you want to know, need to know, and must know that the great I AM is near. Remember, friends, you are never alone.