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Bread for the Journey



 
One of the simple things in life that I keep giving thanks for is a private, hot shower. Maybe I’ve read too many books about hostages or inmates who don’t have this convenience, not to mention the children I saw floating on shacks along the banks of the muddy rivers in Indonesia. I don’t know about you, but it makes me appreciate something I would not want to live without. There is nothing like soap and clean, warm water after working up a sweat or getting chilled while walking in the rain . . . and the wonderful feeling of being clean again.

There is another kind of feeling clean that is even better.  I can hardly live with myself when I know I’ve grieved the heart of God.  What I mean by that is that sin strains relationships and keeps us from experiencing peace.
So, on a spiritual level, I need cleansing and refreshing.

 In Psalm 51:7, 10 it says,
 “. . . wash me and I will be whiter than snow. . . Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

And in Psalm 32:1
“Oh what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight.”

Being forgiven by God and those we have wronged is the best kind of feeling clean. Sometimes I wonder why it takes me so long to humble myself to ask forgiveness, when there is nothing quite as wonderful as a restored relationship.
Let us not drag along our sack of unforgiven sins into the New Year, but rather leave them at the cross and allow the blood of Jesus to wash us white as snow.
This is the way to a truly Happy New Year.
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10 comments:

  1. Well said - thank you for that reminder. You are a very gifted writer.
    Helen

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  2. I resonate with almost every one of your posts both Bread for the Journey posts and your personal blog...what a neat way to connect with a kindred spirit!

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  3. Well said sister. Taking our "bagage" over the Jordan is not a wise thing to do. Thank you for posting.

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  4. So well said, Anneliese.. I agree,the 'inside' cleansing of forgiveness is the best kind of clean.

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  5. You took the words right out of my mouth! God bless! Singing now, "Leave your heavy burdens at the cross!"

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  6. What a great post. I love reading every Bread for the Journey post. They so brighten my day.

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  7. This post has brightened my day too. Psalm 51:7 was one of my mother's favourite verses - she loved the song too. Thanks Anneliese!

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  8. Amen, Anneliese! Beautifully written and warmly received.

    Blessings to All,
    Anna (Toronto)

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  9. Amen. Your words have hit home with me this very early morning. Thank you.

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