Christian Connections

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him…. We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit.”— 1 John 4:9,13

I am feeling blessed today. Thank you to the many of you who have sent me comments and feedback about this blog the last few months, it has truly warmed my heart and helped me see God’s plan in all of this. I am blessed to know the blog is reaching out to you and the messages and stories help you in your faith journey. I often re-read my posts, as I need to hear the message as much as anyone. They help me along too.

I am reflecting about my workplace tonight. I teach a weekly acrylic painting class, and enjoy it very much. Some nights I have over 40 painters, other nights I have under ten. But I always enjoy the stories, joy, and laughter people share. Besides the wonderful people who come in our doors to paint for a few hours, I am blessed by my co-workers. It has been wonderful to get to know each of them a little more, and through moments before classes, down-time as we clean-up, and other snippets of time, I have come to learn that several of them are Christians. As we share our stories, and also our faith, I feel blessed to be in that environment. We have a Christian connection, and it is truly wonderful.

Many come through our doors to celebrate with wine and canvas, or with their children, corporate groups, bachelorette parties, going-away parties, or just to have a night out with friends. Several have shared about needing to get away from the stress of life, to laugh, be creative, and get their batteries re-charged. I am happy I can be a part of that for people. A happy place. A place of rest. A place of renewal. That is the place I am blessed to work in.

When we have a Christian connection, we have a Spirit connection, as our text above shares. God showed his love by Christ’s sacrifice, and we can share this sacrificial love with others. Whether it’s through church, friends, workplaces, or a blog, it is a good connection. We learn from one another. We find hope and joy. And through it all, we are blessed!

Prayer–“Holy Spirit, thank you for giving me Christian connections. Help me to reach out to others with your love and joy, and be a presence in this world for you. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”