Yes, I've moved to the great green North. I'm in British Columbia, attending classes at CanIL, a program at Trinity Western University. I live in a dorm (adjustment from apartment living!), cook with my classmates, and study a lot. I'm quite proud of myself, really. The first week is almost over, and I'm still keeping up with all my homework!
It has been a bit of a rough transition. I'm learning to have faith with my heart and my feelings, not just my head. Yes, I know the answers. I know that God is in control. I DO have faith, but my attitudes and emotions don't always line up with that. However, I'm learning. It's getting better.
Today in "Rhythm of Rest" (kind of a contemplative chapel) we focused on the first few verses of John 15. At first, it seems kind of like a warning to me: the branches that don't bear fruit will be cut off. However, as I thought about the words in the passage, I realized it's more of a promise. Jesus is acknowledging that there are parts of the plant that die, but he promises to remain in his followers. They are supposed to remain in him in order to have abundant life.
In verse 4, Jesus talks about being clean. I thought that was an odd thought to put in, but then I thought of gardening. When my mom tells me to go out and "clean" the yard in the spring, she wants me to rip out the dead branches and cut off the suckers. Jesus tells us that we are already clean because of the word in us... The Word of Life. Jesus has transformed me and made me ready for summer, full of life and delicious fruit. It's not a burden; he's letting me know the work is already done. Chill out, Adrianna. Remain in me. He is a loved one, inviting me to rest in his arms. At least, that's how it came to me today, in the midst of my choppy "adjustment period." He's answering my questions, showing me new things. It's not what I expected, but as long as I remain in the Vine, all will be well - in Canada or anywhere else.
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