In the Shadow of the Cross

  So be truly glad.  There is wonderful joy ahead,
even though you must endure many trials for a little while.
 1 Peter 1:6 NLT

For weeks, I have been sensing I am to live in the shadow of the Cross.  At first, I just allowed the Lord to take me there and asked the Holy Spirit to tell me what he wanted me to see.  As I started my time with the Lord there, I experienced his peace. I discovered true rest in that deep peace. No need to talk or think.

There is protection in the shadow of the Cross.  I sense his security, so important to me, as I rest there.   I am surrounded by his warrior angels.  The enemy dare not intrude.  The Lord is hiding me under his wings so the devil cannot find an opening to disturb us.

I am reminded that because of Christ’s suffering I am being renewed daily, growing into all that the Father created me to be.  I am a new person, the old is gone; the new has come.  So, I let go of the things of the past that are weighing me down and choose to trust the Lord with anything that may be burdening my heart.

In the shadow of the Cross I am reminded of God’s power.  Though gentle to me and reassuring, it is fierce when turned against our enemies.  There is power in the Father’s mighty love that he has for his beloved children like you and me. I can run into the arms of love and let him fill me up and be strengthened.  I belong there in the shadow of the Cross.

Sometimes there is wise discipline there, too.  Random thoughts come to mind, reminding me of things I should have done or said.  Since he loves me, I try to accept his gentle criticism, ask and receive his forgiveness, and seek his wisdom in that area of my life.
 
It becomes easier to trust the Lord with my day when I start it in the shadow of the Cross.  It always amazes me that I am welcome there.  You, too, are welcome.  Learn to love the Cross and its infinite meaning and be comforted there.
 
Dear friends, be blessed as you daily make time to start your day at the foot of the Cross, rejoicing in the shadow.  Just close your eyes and the Holy Spirit will take you there.  May all your days be overflowing with joy and peace no matter what you face.   Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ September 24, 2024