“Convalescence is a sort of grown-up rebirth, enabling us to see life with a fresh eye.” ~ Margaret Prescott Montague
God’s healing power is experienced in varying ways. Sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly, but if we are persistent in our efforts seeking God, we will experience God’s influence in our lives. Today, in our scripture readings, God’s healing touch of lepers and a high-ranking officials’ daughter was quick, but that is not always the pace at which God responds to our needs. We need to pray boldly for God’s intervention in response to our pain and suffering. Then we must be patient, waiting with holy anticipation for the hand of God to intervene. If we don’t ask with the faith demonstrated by Abraham, Ambeimlech, the leper, and the centurion, then we can’t expect much from God. God could and would if God were sought.
“Christianity is fundamentally convalescence…God is not only the doctor who prescribes; He is the nurse who lifts our powerless head and puts the spoon in our mouth…And He is the medicine.” ~ John Piper
The transformation you experience from surrendering your life over to God is miraculous. It’s important to understand that it’s not what God is doing to you, but God in you; that is the miracle. You will experience true sanctification, Christ is in you, and you are in Christ. Transformation is fully God’s doing; your part is to be honest, openminded, and entirely willing for God to transform your life and then practice putting your will in line with God’s thereafter, one day at a time. If you are currently experiencing convalescence, take time to pray boldly, and invite God to come and live in your heart and heal you from your pain and suffering, you will be glad you did.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from today’s reflection and scripture readings?
- Are you currently experiencing convalescence? If yes, are you seeking out the Great Physician to take care of you?
- When is the last time you exercised bold faith like the leper and centurion?
- Do you struggle to pray because of a lack of faith or because of how you understand God?
- At the start of this New Year, how can you grow closer to God?
Prayer
This well-known prayer for peace is a classic Christian prayer by St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226).
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.
~ St. Francis of Assisi
Leave a Reply