Lenten-Meditations-2015-w

Restoration
Friday, February 27, 2015
Change for the Good
READ: Deuteronomy 30:1-10
KEY VERSES: Then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes and have
compassion on you and gather you again from all the nations where he
scattered you. -Deuteronomy 30:3 (NIV)
I have an old carved table that belonged to my grandmother, and I
occasionally ponder whether to have it refinished. The main reason that I
have not is because I like the way it looks. The scratches and portions where
the stain has worn off give the piece history. If the table is refinished, then
someone will use sandpaper, stain and brushes, and take away my history.
In the same manner, we, with our scratches and worn places, have history. We
often are suspicious of God’s restorative work because we fear losing those
parts that make us distinct. Unlike a refinished table, however, the restorative
work of God will leave the life-defining events intact. Our appearance may
change, but the real change will be in our countenance.
–Minister Rosalind Brooks
LOOKING WITHIN: Do I fear that the sanctifying work of God’s Holy Spirit
will make me unrecognizable to my family, friends or even me? How am I
embracing the changes that God is making in me for my good?
God, make me a willing vessel for your life-changing work. Strengthen me
so that I may take the soul-searching steps necessary for true restoration.
Amen.
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