RESToration…
Projects – a lot of work. Restoring something – an old chair or an old house requires…yikes, patience.
I’m wondering if Jesus has ever said ‘yikes’ as He takes us on to restore us to Him? For some the restoration of our spirit by His Holy Spirit comes at a young, tender age. Things aren’t completely rusted or worn down – still it’s a life-long process. For some this work begins later in life, so many broken pieces, walled off areas of hearts.
Unlike our projects of bathroom remodels or vintage cars, the transforming work of Jesus isn’t seen this side of heaven. Still He persists. “…and that same glory, coming from the Lord, who is the Spirit, transforms us into His likeness in an ever greater degree of glory.” (2Corinthians 3:18b GNT)
Recently I had some much needed down time. I’ve found that refurbishing of our souls doesn’t require a lot busyness. It seems to come in rest. The more I rested the more refreshed I became.
One morning I woke just before the sky lightened. I tiptoed out back in my nightgown and sat in the cool air looking up as dawn revealed more and more of this little piece of the world. That’s how it is with us. Little by little Jesus restores us – revealing a bit less worry, a tad more patience, a new found joy or peace. “Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.” (2Corinthians 4:10 NLT)
We’re all about ‘what do I need to do’ – when Jesus is all about ‘rest in My doing’. This is hard for those of us who just want to reach the goal or want to see that last puzzle piece laid in.
My grandson loads his little excavators with scoops of sand and pours them in the waiting dump trucks. Never bothers him when much of it lands on the ground. He just keeps filling and dumping and enjoying the process.
Hmm, that’s it, can we trust God enough to let Him fill what’s lacking in our souls and dump out the stuff that crowds out faith? RESToration comes as He prepares us for a someday where all the old has been made new. And His treasures (yes, you and me) will never rust or spoil or fade. “…and so we look forward to possessing the rich blessings that God keeps for his people. He keeps them for you in heaven, where they cannot decay or spoil or fade away.” (1Peter 1:3 GNT)
parisrenae 
I have never thought of Jesus feeling like my restoration was a lot of work, yet I know that it has been a lot of work and He is still working. Grateful for His loving patience. My favorite line is “can we trust God enough to let Him fill what’s lacking in our souls and dump out the stuff that crowds out faith? ” What a great question, I wish I could give an easy yes, only I know I often struggle against what I know He is leading me to. Great post, Many Thanks 8)
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Yes, your right Jesus doesn’t think of it as work because of His great love it is His delight. And I’m right there with you – surrendering completely is part of His ongoing work in 🙂
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Resting is one of the most difficult things for me to do. There are always so many projects I need to tackle. I am often the woman on a mission! Thank you for this good reminder of how restorative it can be to slow down and spend time listening to God’s whisper!
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Yes, Father, give us busy daughters of Yours ears to hear You whispers of love and mercy, peace and instruction.
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Hmm…I’m looking forward to enjoying some rest this weekend after report cards are done! Thanks for sharing this inspiring post on Grace & Truth this week!
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Well, it will be the last time you do those particular report cards 🙂 Enjoy the blessings of noticing how sweet moments with Jesus are…
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