Birthday thoughts

It's a beautiful birthday morning.  The birds are singing and the sun is up, the house even quiet for this moment.  I read in Isaiah and Romans 11 today--passages that get sent to my email inbox to keep me on track.  Romans 11 is an incredible passage, with thoughts far beyond what I can understand.  I appreciate that Paul--who clearly understands what he's saying far better than I do--can only end with doxology, as his study of God's unsearchable ways leads him to worship.  That is the only place we can go as we read Romans 11.  I mean, you could head down a path of unending questions or even "that's not fair," the lump of clay shaking its fist at the universe.  But worship is so much more beautiful, more elegant, truer.  God made it all.  He will accomplish his purposes.  Nothing can stand it his way.  And I get to call him Abba.  And not only that, his character is completely trustworthy, so I can trust him with my deepest and most troubling questions.  And that, too, leads me to worship.

Tim preached a really great sermon on Sunday, both morning and evening.  In the morning he talked about Psalm 130, and reminded us that the heights of our worship is determined by the depth of our awareness of our own sin.  Those who have been forgiven much and know they have been forgiven much are much more easily lost in wonder, love and praise than those who figure they're doing pretty well.  Of course they are.  I want to spend today aware of my own sin and grateful beyond words for God's grace through Christ toward me.  Rather than focusing on my goals and my thoughts for the year, I would really like to simply reflect on the Cross, and know Christ better.  Have the eyes of my heart enlightened, that I may know the hope of my calling, the riches of my inheritance in Jesus, and the power at work in my life.  Lord, let the power of the resurrection be evident in my life this year. 

I am off to Nashville with Joel this morning, combining the PCA's General Assembly with a little birthday getaway.  We don't need to be there until 7 tonight, where we will get to engage in worship with brothers and sisters in ministry from all over the country and the world.  What better way to celebrate one's birthday?!  I can't wait.  Before that we may try one of the little wineries between here and there, or check out some of the sights in Nashville.  It's an open day.  The kids will be with Bob and Lisa, and Lily especially has been talking for two weeks about her sleepover.  She can't wait.  I hope it all goes as smoothly as it promises.  Last night Lily told me that she needs to have her sleepover for two days, just like with the McElhaneys.  Lily had never known such fun as sleeping in the big girls' room.  Lily is convinced that she and Jack will be sharing a room and having a big ole time, which they may well do.  I can't wait to hear all about their adventure, and pray for my dear Bob and Lisa with a grateful heart that they love our children so.

It's seven now, and the house is still quiet.  What a birthday gift, to have a few uninterrupted moments.  I receive it with joy, and am ready to begin the day.  God is kind and gracious.