whatever it takes...

Have you ever felt so passionate about someone or something that you have prayed this prayer, "Please, Lord, whatever it takes...". You might have said it about something you want. "Please, Lord, whatever it takes, let me get into this program." Something you need: "Please, Lord, whatever it takes, help me to get the money for the rent." Someone you love: "Please, Lord, whatever it takes, help them to know you, love you, follow you."

I was having a discussion with Robbie's grandma this week while we were waiting for his Dad to finish all his surgery stuff. In the midst of the conversation, we both realized we had said that same prayer for our families at some point. Please, Lord, whatever it takes. But she added something I've not added to it. She said, "Please, Lord, whatever it takes for ______________to be in your will, let it be done." Since Henry, my nephew, was born with special needs, I have had a lot of problems praying for God's will. I have questioned why bad things happen to good people. I have questioned why Henry? I have questioned why our family? I have questioned God's will. I will probably never fully understand it, but I surely should have just trusted it. Isn't that faith? To trust when we can't even understand? To call out to God, knowing he will never leave us, he will always hear our prayer? Do we really have to have an immediate answer? What if his will takes years to work out? Would you rather have something in the "now" or something that will change your life forever?

God is truly infinite. He truly has a purpose and a plan for all of our lives. Maybe where we go wrong is trying to figure out the end of the story ourselves. Instead, why not live each day seeking God's word and attempting to stay in line with it, loving those around us, reaching out to help anyone in need (despite race, culture or socioeconomic status). Leave the rest to his will.

With that being said, a close friend of mine is leaving town next week, going to another town to pursue God's purpose for her life. I know that God is going to bless her richly. Here's my prayer for her: Dear Lord, please bless my friend Heather as she prepares and takes a leap of faith. Prepare her heart and her mind. Lord, whatever it takes for Heather to be in your will, let it be done. Help her to discern each step you would have her to take as she envelops herself in you. Hem her in from behind and ahead. Protect her in every endeavor. Bless her with a life filled with love, friends and a spiritual family. Please also bless her with abundance!! Thank you for the friend that she is. Thank you for the love that she has to share with all those around her. Thank you Lord for hearing my prayer. Amen.

Best Wishes, Heather!! I love you!!