Today is my birthday. It will be filled with celebration. A different kind of celebration that was present when He created me & decided when I would start my life, my ministry on earth.

I don’t often tell people (unless they specifically ask) when I was born. However, this year is different. I am thinking differently. Not saying my old way of thinking is wrong, I have grown.

Growth makes me think of a weed or flower. Either you want it or you don’t.

I am sitting outside looking at a weed. I am sure I will pluck it before I go in. I will probably get it in a few minutes to be quite honest.

Even though it is a weed, it has roots. I am now reminded of a tree with gripping and spreading roots.

Do my “roots” run deep and grip? I know that they grip to stuff like the TV, candy (non-chocolate), and sugary stuff. However, do my roots run deep & grip enough to really sustain me spiritually? I think I can be a bit deeper.

Therefore, I have a goal. I like goals. Especially ones that do not set me up to fail.

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB

Let that sink in. Read it a few times. I did as I copied it.

I had to do that so I wouldn’t think Jesus thought the cross was joyous. What I get out of the verse is that Jesus knew why He had to endure the cross. He knew the future.

Hmmm… what a lovely thought even when it really saddens me. He needed to create a backup plan for His creation.

He ran that race even knowing what would come & what He would go through.

For me… For you.

He knew I would be diagnosed with MS & would have it this very moment.

There is a prayer written by a gal who has had MS for almost 40 years. This prayer was brought to my attention and is Kimberly Rae’s book Help For The Sick & Tired. What resonates with me is the statement she made about CHOOSING to praise Him.

Choosing to praise despite what’s coming.

The weed no longer is an eyesore. It will not grow.

I will as I have determined I am not a weed. I want my roots to grip to Him.

🧡 Julie