Greetings Prayer Warriors,
Are you a grumbler? Do you find yourself grumbling out loud, under your breath, or in your heart? Why me? Why now? Lord, why? Why! Perhaps grumbling is hereditary. More likely, acquired! But in many ways, it is a natural human response.
No finger pointing here. As much as we try to follow Christ and tell Him we want to conform our life to His, when He does “gift” us a cross, as His Father gifted Him, we don’t always accept it with gratitude and thanksgiving. Yet, Christ shows us the appropriate response.
Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will.” Mark 14:36
Christ contemplated the will of the Father, understanding that the Father finds sacrifice both pleasing and good. Self-sacrifice takes discipline as well as love for another more than self. Sacrifice produces an eternal good.
At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it. Hebrews 12:11
When you find yourself weary from a cross(es), challenge yourself to practice contemplation in lieu of a negative default response. Ask the Lord to help you understand which virtue needs pruning, fertilization, and growth. Then carry that cross with pride, knowing the beauty of your “yes” will bud and blossom, creating new virtues in the garden of your soul. May these virtues emanate fragrantly, awakening others to a renewed peace as they witness your silent contemplation, acceptance, and joy in the midst of your crosses. May your discipleship be the template by which positive and holy ways are “acquired” throughout your family.
Let’s pray for one another and each others’ families, that we may become imitators of Christ and true disciples,
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Each step is propagated by prayer! Pass it on!
