"Hidden Love, Guiding Light: A Prayer for Comfort and Community"
Jesus,
This prayer comes to you with a heavy heart. You know, sometimes life feels like a circus, and I'm the one walking the tightrope without a safety net. It can be hard to sense Your presence amidst the chaos. But here's the thing—I've discovered that even when I can't feel You, You're always there, lurking in the shadows like a Master of hide-and-seek. Sneaky, I must say!
You know those times when I feel like Your love is playing a game of hide-and-seek with me? Well, fear not, my dear, I say to myself, there is a community like Messy Life Ministry that has my back. They're like a squad of love-filled superheroes (without going faster than a bullet or stronger than the hulk, etc.), ready to swoop in with companionship, encouragement, and enough support to make me feel like I’m floating on fluffy clouds. Who needs a net when you have a squad like that, right? Jesus, thank you for showing me them and bring them into my life.
I know, I know. Sometimes it feels like we want to curl up into a burrito of solitude, isolating ourselves from the world. But guess what? The opposite is what we need. Yeah, I say “we because I am right there with so many others. Life's funny like that. So, let's grab a megaphone and declare to the world, "Hey, I'm going through a tough time, and I need someone to talk to!" It might sound daunting, but trust me, God You have taught me this lesson time and time again, sharing our struggles with a friend, counselor, or even a wise squirrel can help lighten the load and sprinkle some much-needed comfort over our weary souls.
God, You are like a stalker in the most loving way possible. You always watching over us, even when we can't sense You. You have the divine GPS system installed in our hearts, guiding us through Your Word, prayer, and those heartwarming chats with fellow believers. So, let's gather 'round the campfire of fellowship and warm our hearts with the knowledge that Your love is closer than our own breath.
It is like You are often remind me; In the midst of the storm, we often forget to take care of ourselves. But “my friend,” You say, “you are worth it.” As You reemphasize a few things about Yourself, “Remember that in all My infinite wisdom, even I took a day off. And if the Almighty can press the pause button on creation, surely you can take a moment to indulge in self-care. So go ahead, paint a masterpiece, run through fields of wildflowers, or treat yourself to a gallon of ice cream (okay, maybe not a gallon – because then you will be crying to me about weight - but you get the idea). Taking care of yourselves is not a luxury; it's an act of self-love that paves the way for reconnection with Me, Your God…Your Savior and the peace I know you so desperately crave in your heart.”
In the grand finale I hear You say always: “You are loved, my dear friend. Like, seriously loved. My love for you knows no bounds. Even when it feels like I am on an extended vacation, I am actually closer than ever, rooting for you in the ultimate cheering squad of love. So, keep talking to Me, pouring out your heart, seeking My guidance, and trusting that I’ll never abandon you. In this topsy-turvy world, feelings can deceive, but the truth of My Word, promises, and My character stands firm, unwavering, and oh-so-vital to your life.
Lord, you know where I am in all areas of my life and in Your lovingkindness, You point out to me to look for an ear, find understanding, immerse myself in sprinkle hope-filled words like confetti, and surround my life with a community like Messy Life Ministry is just a click away. They are the kind, friendly, and respectful, Believers - which is quite a rare find these days – that I need.
Jesus, I know I am not alone because of You. Together, in this adventure called life, with You leading the way I know I am safe, and these emotions of depression will never compare to Your love. Thank you, Father.
Amen