Faith

More than Meets the Eye
Max Lucado

Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it. ~Hebrews 11:1~

Faith is trusting what the eye can't see.
Eyes see the prowling lion. Faith sees Daniel's angel.
Eyes see storms. Faith sees Noah's rainbow.
Eyes see giants. Faith sees Canaan.
Your eyes see your faults. Your faith sees your Savior.
Your eyes see your guilt. Your faith sees His blood.
Your eyes look in the mirror and see a sinner, a failure, a promise-breaker.
But by faith, you look in the mirror and see a robed prodigal bearing the ring of grace on your finger and the kiss of your Father on your face.

***

This is God's message for me today.

It came to me this morning unexpectedly.

I guess that's how God works. Very Filipino. Mahilig magpahiwatig. He is apparently not the "Peacock" God that we saw during Moses and Noah's time who's into burning bushes and great floods. He makes his presence felt like a warm and gentle breeze, which you may not see but caresses your being through and through without you even realizing it.

Teacher Lia decided to read this passage from her little devotional book for our staff morning prayer in school. Little did I realize that this is exactly what I would need right now, as my day finally comes to a close.

It was a long Wednesday for me for various reasons.

I had a hard time going to sleep last night that it took its toll on my sleep debt account.

Class has been a riot ever since my new kid came. I don't hate my job but it can get frustrating at times just like any other.

I had to finish a report, yet again, for a class. Read loads of readings. Go to night class. The neverending tasks of a grad school student.

The long trip going home.

Plus some emotional load that got in the way which is not worth holding on to.

Yes, I am tired physically and quite drained emotionally.

But then again, I remembered the verse and reflection that I painstakingly copied onto my phone.

He had a purpose. And now, I see it.
I see it, not with my eyes, but with complete faith.

Eyes see storms. Faith sees Noah's rainbow.

Rye's right. Life is too beautiful to be ruined by unnecessary things not worth my time.
I failed to appreciate this reality because I was busy worrying about the gray clouds lurking over me and awaiting the heavy drops to finally pour. And when the rain finally came, I could've just brought out my umbrella and danced to the tune of the clickety-clack of the raindrops... but prefered to sulk because I got wet all over.

Your eyes see your faults. Your faith sees your Savior.
Your eyes see your guilt. Your faith sees His blood.

It's not about me or THEM, Lord. It's about YOU.
It's about your miracles and your great sacrifice on the cross.
It's about you being my friend, when my world crumbles and turns against what I hold dear.
It'a all about YOU.
I choose to focus on YOU, Lord.

Eyes see giants. Faith sees Canaan.

Eyes on the prize, not on this insecure giant before me.
It's time to shun the negative.
And bring in the good things that come only from Him


Thank you for affirming me once again, Lord.
Thank you for filling my life with hope... that great things are coming.
I just place my trust in You and your plans for me.


Ciao!
11:32pm
July 15, 2009