I, The Obstinate Instrument

My Lord Jesus, and my Father God, how can you use me? Even as you finish a magnificent work through me I slip out of your hands and into my own selfishness. Like a dog, the moment that I find myself cleansed but free I sniff out the nearest mud and roll myself in it.

God, never stop using me, that I might never find myself in such a place again.

The Best of Friends

What does it mean to have a friendship with God? Looking up from my little room in Jamul, squinting to see that all-powerful Creator staring unceasingly down from his enormous throne, the prospect of friendship is meaningless. No one with a hundredth part of His power would care to listen to the happenings of my day. No one with a minute fraction of His wisdom could bear to see me blunder as I do through my life. In fact, no part of my life merits the least moment of His attention.

But His perspective is not high above me, looking down as I, in miniature, toddle through my days. For He has come to this world as a man and can look me in the eyes. He has made His home in my very heart, looking out upon me as I do the stars. He has humbled Himself, knowing that I am nothing, and yet making me his world. And so, although I merit nothing of His friendship, He has made me important to Himself and extended His hand to me. I take it gladly today, gratefully and gladly.