I had a ‘moment’ this morning. You know the ones where you realise God is right there beside you, loving you, encouraging you.

I was at staff meeting. I am in a privileged position of working at a church. I say privileged because I have always worked for not-for-profit or ministry organisations, except for last year. I spent seven months working in an Aged Care home. I loved that too, but I was so thankful to be able to once again be the hands and feet in a ministry area. I’m just in the office, but I love it.

One of the hardest things of coming to work here was that there was a lot of history here. My husband and I had both worked her prior. A lot of people know him and obviously know him differently to me. He is quite charismatic, and can be lots of fun. I was mostly known a T’s wife. Coming back, everyone has been so supportive and kind, and encouraging to me. I’m so thankful for that.

But this morning…. we had staff meeting. After some worship, our Pastor asked us to close our eyes and stay in the moment. Then he asked us to imagine if Jesus came and sat beside us. What would he say to us? How would we feel? Cue the tears!!

I could see him, I could feel him right there beside me. His presence and overwhelming love for me radiated from him. He loved me when my sins were like scarlet, and he loved me when I was struggling, and while I ran away from him. He just loved me. As I sat there, I felt him simply say Árise my daughter’. Interpreted by me as – be bold, be strong. This is the beginning, not the end. I have a purpose for you. Break out of your chains. Stand up. Stand tall. Stand strong. I am here. The burdens you have been carrying are in the past. The time is now. My time is now.

Practically , I’m not sure what is next. But my shoulders have squared, my chin has lifted, and I’m ready to walk into a new, bold season. But I will arise. I will not be chained to my past.

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you” Isaiah 60:1

❤