Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Walking forward in uncertainty
Isaiah 45:1-8 
                         

Lijo Chacko
Long Island MTC, NY

2. I will go before you and will level the mountains; I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron.3 I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places,so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
 

Recently, couple of the youths from different Parishes in USA went on a mission trip to Navjeevan Centre in Mumbai, India. We all had personal questions, concerns and doubts before leaving. I myself was hoping for some epiphany but I came back with even more questions, concerns and obstacles. When we saw the reality that the kids face there, it was an eye opening experience.  The lack of resources was very apparent,  I know I felt helpless. Lack of water, shoes, basic school supplies, teachers etc.  I knew that two weeks of singing songs,  praying and tutoring may not have made a significant difference to the people we visited but it did bring up questions in me. Why did God tug on my heart to go there? How can I use this experience for His glory. I don't know what the future holds and I see many obstacles ahead on what I am envisioning to do but I am not afraid because I know my God is with me.

Sometimes God puts obstacles in front of us because He knows that we can conquer it. However, we are human and doubt God's amazing plans because of our limited vision. Just as He made a promise to Cyrus, He makes a promise to us that He will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron and remind us that He is our Lord, the God of Israel. No matter the obstacles, He will break them down to use us. Nothing is impossible when we do it in His name because He also calls each of us by name. He has appointed us with a mission and it's our duty to follow wherever and whichever direction it leads.  

PRAYER

Our heavenly Father,  we pray that You quiet our minds and calm our restless heart so we can discern Your plans for us. Give us courage to follow through. We ask this in Your merciful name. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
"When you face the perils of weariness, carelessness, and confusion, don't pray for an easier life.  Pray instead to be a stronger man or woman of God." - Luis Palau

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