Always

Dear God, this is Kelley.

I remember when I first met You. I would pass a golden crucifix my mother had hung on the wall. Every day, I would pass it, and every day I would think about it. I would think about You. I wondered who You were, why You were hanging there like that, so exposed and hurting.

You used this image, Lord. As my mind wrestled with understanding how “God” could be suffering like that, Your grace informed my own suffering. I felt myself encouraged, comforted, and strengthened.

This crucifix was not the only image You used to speak to me. There were many others through the years. Though my suffering would continue, You were there. You were always there, and where You are, there is grace; there is power; there is resurrection.

We think if suffering remains, prayers are not answered. This is not true. Prayers are always answered. You are always with us.

Reflection

What images from your childhood did God use to comfort, inform, encourage, and strengthen you?

Prayer

Dear God, open my eyes, my mind, my heart! Where You are, there is grace, grace for all we need. Teach me how to use this grace so that I might endure, overcome, and grow in wisdom. Suffering does not and cannot keep me from You, and in You, I can find all things. Amen.