So now we draw near freely and boldly
to where grace is enthroned,
to receive mercy’s kiss
and discover the grace we urgently need
to strengthen us in our time of weakness.
(Hebrews 4:16 TPT)
I wrote about a concert I attended recently at a local Christian conference and retreat center. This beloved venue was preparing for a major renovation during next winter, in which a 75+ year old building that has been used for church services, concerts, and conferences will be dramatically refurbished and updated. Jason Gray’s concert was the last before this expansive work was to be done, and you could feel a bit of nostalgia and even grief from parts of the audience who were anxious about the changes.
I believe God showed Mr. Gray these places of concern, and, in turn, allowed him to guide the audience into a place of sweet reassurance and grace. At the end of his concert set list, the audience stood and we sang “Goodness of God,” then “How Great Is Our God,” and finally “Amazing Grace.” As the audience started the second line of this hymn, Mr. Gray left the stage, not seeking the applause, but allowing the Holy Spirit in that moment to speak peace and grace into the hearts and minds of the people there. It was a holy moment and, I believe, a place where the Peace that Passes Understanding was poured out upon worried hearts.
Well done, good and faithful one.
Jehovah Shalom,
Thank you for your people who are sensitive to your Spirit and help your sweet Voice to be heard. Thank you for holy moments where you speak to our anxieties with your consolation, our chaotic thoughts with your soothing comfort, and our stresses with your care and joy. Thank you for the gift of your Amazing Grace in unexpected moments. Help us to always be open to hear you, to draw near to you freely and boldly, and receive your much-needed mercy, grace, and strength. May we show hope, life, and peace to those around us, we pray in Jesus’s name, AMEN.
When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. (Psalm 94:19 NIV)
Whenever my busy thoughts were out of control, the soothing comfort of your presence calmed me down and overwhelmed me with delight. (Psalm 94:19 TPT)
Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7 TPT)