When I find it hard to see you...

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As a deer longs for flowing streams, 
          so my soul longs for you, O God. 
My soul thirsts for God, 
          for the living God. 
     When shall I come and behold the face of God? 
My tears have been my food 
          day and night, 
     while people say to me continually, 
          “Where is your God?”
~ Psalm 42:1 - 3

Eighteen years ago today I was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).  With my parents, grandparents and friends surrounding me, I entered into a covenant with God.  

I will say that it has been filled with more joyous moments than sad.  Sometimes difficult, never regretting.  

The times that have been most difficult is when someone has shared that their current life experience has been filled with moments of doubt.

Our ability to have faith through difficult times seems to be our greatest strength.  Being able to point to a time, or reflect on a moment, when there was no other reason than it being God, are the times that we as believers can find great comfort.

But what of those who have "seen" and still find it difficult to believe.  The Psalmist strives to remind us that for any of us there are questions.  When will I see you Lord?  Why are there times that I hunger so greatly for your presence?

All our very real, and remind us that for any of us, there are times when we long for God's presence, and seem to be unsure.

What I have learned in my years in ministry is this, hold on, watch and listen!  God is real and present.  God is not one to abandon.  It's not that God is not present, it is simply that we are not looking in the right place.

The greatest hope I have for any of us is this, God is very real, and very present.  ALWAYS!

Hoping that you discover God's presence within each moment!  Stay in God's grip!

​G. Todd Williams (c) 2017

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Dear Lord, help me in my times when I struggle to find you.  Amen.

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