Crucified with Christ

Have I been crucified with Christ?

Does He live in me?

Does the evidence dismiss the court I face? 

Jesus bore massive sorrows… tombstone quarries… but He was convicted so I would be free.  I still find myself in court… often, because handling disappointment eludes me… even more often.

Why haven’t His Stripes brought me peace?  Why do my thoughts perjure me while I pray for His Perfect Will in my life… when what I really want is to live a life void of disappointment and be healed of my affliction?

I feel like the woman with the issue of blood… she suffered many years with no relief.  She had faith… like Abraham!  She had Power when she touched the hem of His garment… she could have rolled that stone away.  Why is it too heavy for me?

My issue is health related, too… ongoing for the past 12 years with no answers.  It’s not common… it’s not pleasant… it’s the type of condition that isolates… me… a loud talker, practical joker, who giggles and laughs uproariously… a social sunflower past.

I hear the gavel striking… the verdict convicting... the tomb closing... but I ponder the crime - unbelief?  I know I have prayed without ceasing silently and outwardly… most of those years… claiming His Promises, but I have to surrender my will for His… my plan for His… my desires for His.  One day I’ll touch the hem of His Garment and stop asking this question: Why is this happening… what is Your Plan in this, Jesus?

As Easter approaches and we Celebrate Jesus, I will continue to give thanks for all the ways He blesses me… to run and not grow weary… to walk and not faint… and learn to soar on wings like eagles as I ponder my freedom and remember that Jesus carried the most burdensome cross on earth when His own Father did not respond to His plea and allowed Him to be crucified... for our redemption.

Abba, Father, today I'm giving Thanks with a grateful heart knowing You are working in and through me... teaching me how to die to self.

Today's art work which includes the artistically rendered scripture by Diane Noble is for the Word Art Wednesday blog spot weekly challenge.  Drop by their site and be a participant in their upcoming challenges... you will be blessed!