Promised to your path

“One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work I have for them.' So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way." Acts 13:2-3

Dedicate: to set apart, to devote (time, effort, or oneself) to a particular task or purpose

Devote: to give all or a large part of one's time or resources to a person, activity or cause, to persist in adherence to someone or something; to be intently engaged in, attend constantly to, to undertake resolutely, to practice diligently

My Abba,

The word "dedicate" captures my attention this morning. What did it mean when you asked these people to "dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work" you had for them? It seems, after looking at some meanings, that you wanted them devoted, given, set apart, committed, promised to a particular purpose.

I want a heart that is prepared through time in the Scriptures, worship, fasting, and prayer to understand the particular task or purpose you have for me.  I want to devote myself to what is on your heart. I can think of a million good (and not so good) ways to spend my time today. But I want to sense your heartbeat.

Your path for me is always rich. Sometimes it is a treacherous, rocky trail on the precipice of a hungry chasm. (Our mule ride traversing the cliffs in Molokai comes to mind.) Other times your path feels gentle and quiet like a morning walk between majestic pines in a lush forest. But no matter what, your path brings life. Help me take your hand and follow you today.

Please make me persistently, intently, constantly, resolutely, and diligently dedicated to you and your purposes.

I love you,

Mollie

My child,

You are beginning to understand that our connection on this journey is more important than the scenery. You know what it is like to enjoy the company of a loved one so much that you don’t really care where you are. That is how it can be for us.

 I know you love the quiet walk in the forest. But sometimes you will need to cling to me on the precipice. I have set you apart for a specific journey with me. It won't look like your neighbor's. My plans for you are as singular as your D.N.A.

Our connection is also unique. Our relationship will never be duplicated. Cherish our one-of-a-kind, priceless connection. The more you invest in it, the richer it will become. I am already fully committed – all in.

Our communion can outshine all of the circumstances you will encounter today. Don't worry about where you will wind up at nightfall. Home is where I am. And I am always with you.

Although you won't always be ebullient about your surroundings on your journey, just remember enduring joy comes from the greatest gift of all – eternal relationship with me. As you spend yourself on our connection, you will find joy, whether you are drifting through quiet forests or wrestling on a rocky precipice.

I love you,

Abba