Spiritual Healing

Praise be to God for a New Year! Worldwide, there may never be another year as 2008! Wow! Extremes to the hilt, stock market, loss of homes, high cost of living, natural disasters, war, foreign affairs in

 a disarray from all avenues.

Initially, I was going to write about New Year’s resolution on what we would like to change in our lives to make it better for us. Diets and certain vices that we should rectify and/or control was my first thought. I was also going to speak about how reconditioning our thinking in helping others through courtesy, giving of our time and friendship, and also on personal character-building. Then, I thought of something else that is worthy of expression.

Due to the unexpected passing of a very close family member on New Year’s day; although, estranged as we were for a few years, losing my stepmother caused me to speculate on the coulda, shoulda, woulda frame of thinking. All of the memories began to overflow; my emotions became very rocky; my loss (although I know she is in the presence of our Lord) rocked me in a way that I never would have thought. I have lost quite a few family members in recent years but why did her presence shake me so? The sweet scent of her perfume filled the air; the sound of her laughter filled my heart, and to hear her sweet voice singing: “Your love is lifting me higher” (Jackie Wilson); it became very hard for me to take control. She was truly a beautiful lady; the love and compassion she gave to my sister and I was unsurpassed. At the same time, I felt a loss for my brother, although not in the physical sense of the word; but for the loss of time, communication and to build a relationship – by no means anyone’s fault. In attending the funeral, seeing old familiar faces that I had not seen since I was a little bitty girl; listening to their stories as a child caused me to realize that while we’re on this earth, it is never too late to seek out those we love and try to resolve issues and attempt to mend or close old wounds.

We realize that God puts people in our lives, even if for a short period and for a purpose. It may never have been meant to be with my stepmother all my life, but to appreciate the nourishment of her love when it was needed. How we live our lives, how we relate to others can determine how we are perceived. Not to look at a rating scale, or a scorecard in the face of God, but to truly know and appreciate love, we have to give love. The act of love is very powerful when given freely; when we give of ourselves through word, action, compassion, even tough love can be rewarding. To some of us, this can be very hard; to be confronted with old wounds or unsettled situations can be a hardship. But we have to carry out this duty of love if we want God’s love and acceptance; it may not always be a bed of roses.

Matthew 5:23-24 comes to mind; we cannot ask of forgiveness from God until we forgive others. God wants us to have peace with one another. We should not attempt to bring our offerings before God when at odds with someone. Although we do not bring physical offerings today as back in olden days; but we do bring Him alms, praise and thanksgiving. Before we come to Him with our prayers, and earnestly seek His good will, we should make amends with those we offend. Go to the estranged friend and settle the matter. The very essence of God is love; He epitomizes outgoing concern for others; this is what love is all about. We have to make changes in our lives to conform to God's standard so that our prayers will be fully accepted by Him. God expects us to reflect His love in everything we do. And He wants peace.

In the New Year, and if and when in opportunity, find the time and way to make amends with those in your lives, whether situations were either your fault or theirs. We need to take the first step in mending differences. We should also open our hearts to those who are lonely, ill and “others” that some may feel unworthy. Give your love and attention to those “who need it.” Pray, pray, pray for others as we do for ourselves to our Father for his strength. We are not getting any younger; and as time pass, the door of opportunity slowly closes.

Let us clean house. Negativity, grudges, pettiness, selfishness, pride, arrogance are not attributes we want housed in our lives ill hinder our spiritual growth. The hardest part to getting something done is to get started. Ask our Precious Lord for help in this area. If you have worries, animosity, anger, hurt, grief, of us knows what tomorrow may bring, but we have faith to know it will be better with our love, our help, and our compassion Give it to God! Let him direct you on the right path. None under the light of God! You will be blessed in the end when you give your heart; your act of kindness, can change the way someone else thinks…it may even change the world, one step at a time! Have a blessed and spiritually prosperous new year!

Beatitude ~23"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. (Mathew 5:23-23)NIV