Has it been so long.....?

So, spiritual mentors such as Dallas Willard, Brennan Manning and Richard Foster remind us of the importance of time alone with God. Not just "quiet time", but quiet time.

I'm here to confess, I can't get there. I note the date of my last post...almost a year and a half ago. Blog posts don't equate to time with God by any stretch, but for me, a post might come when I think I might have something to say, even to myself.

I also confess a certain level of panic when I feel/think I have nothing to say. It's not true, of course, but I'll admit, I am steeped in existentialism and it is a darn hard road to hoe outta there. So, I am trusting, trying to trust that "we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5 NKJV).

I always picture tribulations as coming from active persecution; the kind that results in imprisonment, confiscation of property, torture and martyrdom. I don't enjoy the prospect of any of those things. I realize that traffic, the complaints of folks at work, the demands of customers and superiors are enough to severely test my peace and faith. I could only imagine if, along with those everyday challenges, I had to deal with active persecution. As I test myself on this, I don't come out so well.

Jesus, please bless and strengthen those brothers and sisters who are enduring overt persecution and hostility. Give them knowledge of your presence and your plan. And for those brothers and sisters who are struggling to persevere in faithfulness as they muck about in the slough of despond or get waylaid by the sights and sounds of Vanity Fair...Lord give us vision and direction. Let our eyes not grow dull, our hearts weary.

Prone to wander...Lord, I feel it....so I pray along with the hymn writer..."Lord let me never, never outlive my love for thee...!"