[Jody M]

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong on behalf of them whose heart is perfect towards Him. II Chronicles 16:9

The Lord planted, watered and harvested a generous and loving spirit in my adoptive mom. As I was growing up she continually showered me with encouragement and words of praise, not to mention many monetary and tangible gifts. When I was in college she sent me many "Care" packages filled with yummy homemade cookies or thoughtful gifts.
As years progressed, she continued this lovely pattern.
At one point, I remember becoming so overwhelmed by her giving and feeling I could never repay her, and became discouraged that I could not keep up the pace. One day I verbalized my struggle to her, my agonizing over this striving to keep up. Her response was " Oh, I never want you to feel this way when I give you things. I only desire your love and gratitude. And I know that your heart will respond by giving freely to others when God nudges you. And others will be blessed by being recipients of that love.
My mother's graceful response gave me a window into the heart of my heavenly Father's love. He bestows unconditional love to me each and every day. Unmerited, undeserving, endless favor. And He does not want me to run ragged trying to even the score. He is not interested or impressed with my gifts or sacrifices or endless attempts to win His approval. I do not earn His love by outward actions, I already have His love given freely. He looks deep inside of me to see my heart response to Him. My Abba Father desires my love, that's all. He longs for me to just sit at His feet, share my life with Him and listen to His loving words for me.

Reflections: Do I strive and run ragged trying to earn God's favor or approval or that of others? Do I know what He truly desires from me- it's my love. That my heart ever draws close to Him.

Prayer: Oh Precious Heavenly Father, Show me this day how to love you. Free me from striving to impress you, to earn your love and approval or that of others. As your eyes run to and fro across the whole earth, may you find this daughter's heart wholly devoted to you. Thank you for your endless love for me!

Jody Moreen www.adoptionblessingsnewsletter.com
Editor, Adoption Blessings Journal