A Relationship Is A Gift
That Can Blossom In Beauty
The beauty of relationship can weather many storms and remain strong. Relationship can grow as both delicate and rooted. In looking at pictures of the National Cherry Blossom Festival I could not help but think of relationship. Over 3,000 cherry trees were sent to the United States from the people in Japan as a gift of friendship in 1912. On the northern bank of the Tidal Basin two of those original trees stand today. They were planted by First Lady Taft and Viscountess Chinda, the wife of the Japanese Ambassador. Despite both natural and political storms they still stand as a beautiful reminder of spring and renewal.
I am from Washington, D.C. and was blessed to enjoy countless spring walks abundant with the beauty of the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. If you have an opportunity to visit our Nation’s capital make sure to include the cherry blossoms. They are unforgettable and a vivid representation of God’s masterpiece. They are a reminder of ever changing relationship.
The Most Important Relationship Of All
In thinking of relationship there are so many life connections to consider. The most important life giving relationship is the one you have and maintain with the Lord. This should not be a relationship in name only. Sadly, so many Christians only verbalize a commitment to Jesus Christ and continue to live in the same spirit-destructive patterns. To develop and maintain a true relationship with Jesus you will change and your life will change as well. There will be a deep ongoing transformation and renewal of your mind. What appealed to you before will lose its charm. People, places and things in your life will shift. The shifts will be subtle at times and swift at others.
Take a moment to look over your own life. If you confess that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior but you are still thinking, doing and living as you always have reconsider your relationship with Him. Jesus will change you. The choice is yours whether or not to follow His lead. As things around us shift daily in great proportion know that a relationship rooted in Jesus Christ will keep you grounded in every storm. Where does your relationship stand with Him? What can you do now to deepen that relationship daily?
“Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38)
Are You Present To Those Around You?
Other relationships in your life include family, friends and coworkers. Actually you have a relationship with anyone you come in contact with. A relationship can be life-long or just for a moment. How you interact with others tells a lot about you. Do you really listen to another or do you keep checking your cell phone? Do you look at the other person or are you consumed with mental gymnastics of all you have to do or would rather be doing?
We all are distracted at times but if you operate in a constant state of inattention to those in your presence you are potentially missing great opportunity. God places you in the lives of others and others in your life. How you respond to each person can forever change your life or theirs. We are called to love one another which means in part that we treat others with respect. Do you only call someone if you need or want something? Time is precious to each of us. When sharing yours with someone be respectful of them sharing their time with you.
Life changing moments happen all the time. Be present in your life. Be present in your relationships. This week be aware of your response to those you encounter. Purpose to live with presence in the moment. Relationship, like the cherry blossom tree, has potential to repeatedly blossom in beauty if nurtured and rooted in care. Bring grace and integrity to your relationships. Be delicate yet strong ever providing beauty, peace and hope.
“And the second [commandment] is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:39-40)
A Prayer Request
Thank you for your continued faithfulness to pray. Please keep all who serve our country, our servicemen and women and their families in prayer for salvation and safety. They are our frontline on the battlefield, let us be their frontline in the spirit. Also, let us cover all who have come home wounded that they and their families will receive the kindness, help and support they need to go forward in their lives. God bless all our diplomatic and military personnel and their families. Please pray for all in authority over us, for the full truth to come forth concerning Benghazi, for all affected by recent devastating weather conditions and for safety in Israel. May God richly bless the United States of America and keep her safe. May we may arise united in this auspicious season in our country’s history.
Please Pray This Prayer With Me
Father I thank You for another day and the opportunity to deepen my relationship with You. Teach me Your ways and lead me on the path of righteousness. Teach me to love You above all else and to love others as You have loved me. Teach me to let go of worry and to be present to You and to those You place in my life for the glory of Your Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. I pray this Jesus’ precious name. Amen and amen.