April 29, 2018

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Can You Even Imagine?

Van Gogh potty training, Picasso learning to walk, Warhol speaking his first words, O'Keeffe falling off her bike, da Vinci dealing with acne.... CAN YOU EVEN IMAGINE?!?   It is challenging to consider that world renowned artists experienced the very same things we did.  I believe when we see their work in the galleries, art history books, and reproduced treasures and trinkets that we place them upon an untouchable pedestal that is removed from time & space. Though we may know some of the facts about their story....we romanticize their lives, their art, and their methods as we gaze upon their elevated & celebrated work.   We praise the moment, but fail to acknowledge the path that led to it. The struggles were real.  Just like the struggles we face.  I'm sure if we could have an audience with these men & women, they would share the problems & the pain that were as numerous as the brush strokes on their canvas.  From Van Gogh's mental issues to Kahlo's physical struggles...life happens to everyone.  How we handle those things we face make all the difference!  


For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weakness, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet he did not sin.  Hebrews 4:15

Many wrestle with trying to be "good enough" for God.  They feel/believe they have to have their acts together, their lives cleaned up, and look the part.  This mentality either keeps them from drawing close to the Lord, perpetuates wearing masks, or causes them to completely giving up and walk away.  They forget that God knows their struggles, he knows their pain, and understands their doubts and fears.  "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weakness.." CAN YOU EVEN IMAGINE?!?!  EMMANUEL....GOD WITH US!  Our God came to earth as a baby!  He lived his life among us.  He faced the same struggles, but did not sin.  He lived his life as an example to us all.  When you are having a bad day...he gets it!  When you mess up....nothing he hasn't seen before.  When you struggle with doubt....he is not shocked.  He loves you no matter.  He understands....and wants to hold you close.  He wants to help take you from trials to testimonies!  And you know what....he can! 


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