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Most Christians can vividly recall the glorious moment when they first encountered Christ. My story began early one morning as the sun's rays slowly filtered through the pearl veil draped over the ravine outside my window. During the long hours of heavy rain and strong winds, this misty blanket protected the people who lived in the woods. A steady beam of light searched through the mess, revealing an exhausted and bruised landscape. A scene that reminded me of my own messy life. As her warmth gently dried each drenched cedar, I heard a voice whisper to the forest babes, saying, "It's safe to come out now." Without reservation, they scurried to play in the fallen leaves piled in random heaps on the mossy floor below. An explosion of sounds filled the still morning air. With furry friends chattering and feathered neighbors chirping, the aroma of woodsy evergreen and sweet lily-of-the-valley rolled out their welcoming mat. Admiring this comical scene, I smiled inwardly. How I envied nature's innocence and absolute trust in a Higher Power. A Protector. In time I would come to know that "My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation." He is my stronghold, refuge, and savior..." (2 Samuel 22:3).

"How many of you are trying to put the puzzles of life together in your life, in your marriage, in your business, in your school, in your work, with your friends? Life is a big puzzle, and you haven't found a way to put it all together yet. Jesus Christ can do it for you if you'll let Him." – Billy Graham.

Meanwhile, sadness brewed its first cup of the day. Staring at its reflection, I mulled over how sweet life would have tasted without Adam and Eve. The spoilers. Choosing to shake hands with the devil as they invited doubt into what had been the perfect home. The Garden of Eden. Imagine walking with God each morning and listening to His thoughts! But as if that wasn't bad enough, the sun rose even higher, illuminating the billions of dirty water spots on the window panes between me and the beautiful world outside. Then as a gust of air tapped on the window ever so lightly, the same gentle voice from earlier called my name and whispered, "It's safe to come out now." 

It was that very moment when I realized, "My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge, and my savior..." (2 Samuel 22:3). The Truth, God's living Word had set me free! 

"Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without a compass, God's love encompasses us completely. ... He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken." Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

I had been set free! "...from the law of sin and death through Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:2) NIV.

Dear Father in Heaven,

My heart is overflowing with thanks for Your precious lamb, Jesus' saving blood, and Your Holy Spirit, who guides my daily steps. Thank You for freeing me from the law of sin and death. Thank you for the cross. 

Amen.