Mess & Majesty

For the last couple years God has been cultivating this massive shift in my thinking and perspective. It wasn't just the pandemic, but the compilation of extreme happenstances. The last 4 years have felt so ... messy. Overwhelming circumstances, illusive friendships, and a crisis at every turn. I know I'm not the only one grappling with these dynamics. Furthermore, I have watched friends and family endure hardships, some of which felt humanly impossible to bear.

At the same time, I cannot even put into words my awe for how the Father continually steps into my chaos, bringing order and breathing life back into my weak and wearied soul. More often than not, my circumstances have not changed, but the Lord renews my mind in the trenches of uncertainty and discouragement. I've found myself existing in this strange paradox: grappling with the dynamics of my messy human existence while simultaneously beholding and experiencing the joyful majesty of God. All of this has forged uncharted depths of reflection in my life. This shift has inspired me to rebrand my blog and press into the theme of Mess & Majesty.

This is something I've thought about doing over the years as we navigated complex circumstances, but I didn't have margin to move forward with it. Frankly, it's hard to navigate messy seasons of life successfully. But perhaps that's the point. Doesn't Jesus want us to exchange our messy lives for the glorious riches of His majesty? To strive for His rest instead of trying to piece together a poor imitation on our own?

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar. The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.” Proverbs‬ ‭19‬:‭21‬-‭23‬

I've been reflecting on these verses since the beginning of the year as we prepared and walked through the changes and transitions it took to return to Oregon. I'm a planner. I "feel" most at ease when I can strategize and verbalize the details of my day. But oh how rare it is for my plans to be executed successfully. It is only when I surrender my schedule to the Author of time, allowing Him to guide me by His peace, and grant me discernment through His Spirit that I have the ability to rest satisfied in the daily rhythms of my life.

This life will always hold disorder, chaos, and confusion. But the splendor and glory of God is available to us through Jesus. He wants to work in our mess and reveal His majesty in ways we cannot fathom. He knows where you are and He has a plan to redeem your situation. It doesn't matter how mess life looks for you - if you ask, He will intervene. He will redeem. That's just who God is! I hope you will keep following me on this journey. Tides are changing in my life, and as I continue to seek and strive toward His peace, I know there is much more on the horizon for both myself and my family. I pray that as I continue sharing my stories and experiences, they will glorify the Lord and encourage you on your journey.

Lord Jesus, thank you for the ability to experience Your majesty and splendor in the middle of my trials and tribulations. It's hard to rest satisfied in Your presence when it feels like life is spiraling out of control. Give me fresh eyes and a renewed confidence to trust You in all things at all times. I pray for everyone reading my words today. However messy or scary or chaotic life appears before them, grant them your assurance and peace. There is nothing too big or outrageous that remains outside of Your power, authority, or dominion. Though the world crumble before us, we can stand firmly on Your Word. You are forever faithful and steadfast in all your ways. Bless my friends, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.