My Fourth of July was quite festive. My roommate made signs for parking and I helped her strategically post them up in our “parking lot” at the top of our driveway. She made the most patriotic signs about parking ever. Even if no one else found enjoyment in them, I chuckled each time I read the parking signs to myself like “Liberty to park here” or “Everyone has the right to park here.”
I had been craving bubble tea for the last few days and decided there’s no better time to go grab some then as soon as the shindig began. I already felt a bit overwhelmed by the party even though only two people had arrived. Me and a friend made our exit only to return three hours later to a hoppin’ party in progress.
Desserts and odd food platters completely covered our kitchen table. You couldn’t even see the decorative blue and red table cloths hidden underneath. And given that I recognized about a quarter of the party guests who filled the house and lake shoreline, I grabbed a drink and headed out to the back porch in search of someone I knew.
That’s when I bumped into a familiar face, a fella who just spend the past two weeks camping in preparation for his upcoming missions journey to remote regions of the world. He shared stories of hitch-hiking his way back to a nearby town, seeing the Lord provide every step of the way. I noticed my spirit getting excited at the potential to live in a similar manner.
The part of his testimony that thrilled me the most was a simple question his wilderness training coach always asked: “What’s the Lord saying?”
I must admit, I often find myself living in a godly routine instead of asking for God’s response to that question. I work in a Christian organization yet can go through the motions of working without getting in touch with what Holy Spirit is speaking in the moment.
“What’s the Lord saying?”
Jesus only moved and spoke what he witnessed his Father do and speak (John 5:19; 12:49). He lived in complete submission and obedience. Jesus demonstrated a life worth living as well as encouraged us to do the same. He showed us how we’re meant to live, how God created us to live.
I glanced around the back porch as this friend continued to testify of his two-day experience filled with miracles and joy. I saw people created in God’s image, destined for greatness and fullness in His presence. I saw sheep who know and move according to the Shepherd’s voice.
“What’s the Lord saying?”
I’ve felt a stirring in me ever since that conversation on the evening of America’s Independence Day. I didn’t feel condemned of not doing enough as my friend shared his adventure, but rather an excitement that I too can share in that loving relationship with God my Father.
“Join in the fun, Colleen! There’s so much more I have for you.”
It’s what I hear the Lord saying to me and I get to respond in love.
What do you feel the Lord speaking to you currently? How are you responding to what you’re hearing or seeing Him speak?
