Today’s scripture: Isaiah 62 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Kirsten Shaw):
In the New York Times article, “Where Heaven and Earth Come Closer,” writer Eric Weiner described the Celtic concept of “thin places” as “locales where the distance between heaven and earth collapses and we’re able to catch glimpses of the divine…the transcendent…the Infinite Whatever.”
In today’s passage, Isaiah prayed tirelessly to see the work of salvation completed in Israel. I have no doubt that for Isaiah, there was no thinner place for him than Israel.
For me, there is no thinner place than Life Journey Church.
For the last couple of years, depression consumed my world. I was ashamed of my dark thoughts and the pain that it caused those I love. I was going to counseling. I got back on anti-depressants. And every carbohydrate in the greater-Indianapolis area rightfully feared for its life. But nothing in my dilapidated toolkit lifted my darkness. Then, in the beginning of June, I followed the recommendation of a friend and attended my first service at Life Journey Church.
From the moment I walked into the building, I felt spiritually at home. I enrolled in a discipleship class, joined an Oasis group, added volunteer opportunities to my already-bloated calendar, and made a decision to join the church as a member. I’m beyond grateful to have found the most perfect imperfect church for me.
Life Journey not only helped me lose my depression, but I’ve started to lose some weight too! Regardless of what the scale says, I’m grateful I can walk through the doors of our church and be forever at my thin place.
Thought for the day: Gracious God, what else can I do with my church to give thanks and receive Your gifts?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.