dressed...

Good Morning Father,

Mark 1:35-41 (NKJV) 
Now in the morning,... He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. ...Then Jesus, moved with compassion...

Never underestimating the need for a solitary place, a time to be still before you in preparation for what's ahead. There will always be something ahead. Last evening, I was blessed with an evening dinner and a concert with an old friend from my college days, even though we haven't seen each other in years, there was no awkward gap between us.  It was wonderful catching up on things. Sharing about our family and work. She ask me about my work in the ministry, identifying with the demands, the feeling of never being off. I understood; I knew what she was referencing, but I shared with her my commitment to not begin the day unprepared. That when I leave for the day, I must be dressed!

Dressed in every way; mentally, spiritually, emotionally, physically...  The above verses reminding me of the example of my Savior. He knew the need to retreat to a solitary place to pray before encountering the multitudes, the people, the demands of the day.

Prepared for the multitude...moved with compassion, that's the blessing of being dressed and prepared. Lord, please keep dressing me for what's ahead, I know you go before me, beside me, behind me, I know I'm covered. Many reflect on where this mysterious assurances comes from; honestly, I cannot fully put into words this confidence we have in Christ, for an unbeliever-- it just doesn't make sense, but once they are given to believe, they will see. The flood gates opening, the light piecing through the darkness, the scales falling from the eyes, what was a faint white noise, becoming crystal clear, an audible inward knowing, revealing the most beautiful truth, truth wrapped in unspeakable love and joy. Resonating with the song by Mercy Me, a version of it song at the concert last night, my friend and I sharing the love of the words of this song...  "I can only imagine" One can only imagine, oh that all would one day see!