Ecclesiastes continued today but I cannot say this was a familiar reading to me. The opening words are rejoice! Let your heart delight while you are young. The reader is encouraged to follow the inclinations of the heart, knowing that God will judge on these behaviours. We are to remember our Creator while we are young, before we encounter trouble, before all hell breaks loose basically.

Remember the Creator while we are still innocent, before we are jaded, and before we can cling to denial. Some day, women will be brought low, strong men are bent, and terrors will abound because all will go to their eternal home. The imagery is striking. The mourners will go about the street with brokenness all around–the silver cord, the golden bowl, the pitcher and the cistern wheel. I read these words and recognized some of the pain and sorrow attached to them.

We are human and we will falter–as I have been doing lately. I know that the season will pass. I think we need to acknowledge these feelings before we can move away from them. There is no shame in being vulnerable. There is wisdom in digging deep and remembering the Creator over the whole of our life instead of ignoring the nagging voices that are stealing our sanity in the moment.  Those harsh discords are often not God’s voice but the darkness bidding us loudly towards distraction. Ignoring the chatter is exhausting. Examining it, even befriending the emotions that have arisen, are what will bring Light.

I love how the Creator does work in my life. I was home this evening and decided to check my PVR for shows I had recorded but not yet watched. I clicked on Super Soul Sunday and scrolled down the list. Glennon Doyle Melton was one of the names among the several listed. I listened to my intuition as I have just recently discovered this blogger. The words  the only way to live is to forgive yourself constantly for being human flashed across the screen at one point. I smiled and nodded. When you take the time to listen, the message you need will arrive.  Doyle Melton also talked about the emotions not leaving until they have taught you what you need to know. Yes, Creator, I am listening. I remember your steadfast love and mercy; I know that the Creator is also remembering me.

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

What lessons are your emotions teaching you?

How do you remember the Creator of your youth?

Prayer

Creator, I remember you from the early days of my youth, when you grabbed hold of my heart and never let go. I remember the delight of hearing your Word and feeling your Presence. When there are terrors in the road, I retreat to you, trusting that you will restore me. You will remember me. Amen.