at our weakest

'When we are at our weakest, our eyes turn once more to Christ as the true source of our strength. When other voices are silent, we are most willing to hear Christ's words of comfort and challenge. When others pass by, we turn again to rediscover the tender embrace of our Lord. It is in such moments that Christ draws near, seeking to renew and redirect us.'

Alister McGrath, Knowing Christ

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Note on photograph: a nicely timed drive led to a lovely view of the sun going down over the sea!

Today: 4-5/10, low - medium

a far country

"Today the heart of God is an open wound of love. He aches over our distance and preoccupation. He mourns that we do not draw near to him. He grieves that we have forgotten him. He weeps over our obsession with muchness and manyness. He longs for our presence...

For too long we have been in a far country:
a country of noise and hurry and crowds,
a country of climb and push and shove,
a country of frustration and fear and intimidation.

And he welcomes us home:
home to serenity and peace and joy,
home to friendship and fellowship and openness,
home to intimacy and acceptance and affirmation."

Richard Foster, Prayer

Lord, so often I forget you. Help me to remember.

So often I am engrossed in that 'far country' - easily distracted, easily bored, easily forgetful.

Help me to remember you, and refuse to live by the expectations of others (and myself), but seek to follow you alone.

Today: 4/10, medium - high (neck worse than head)