THIS WEEK’S THEME: My soul thirsts for you
DEVOTIONAL:
Thirsting for God is a faith metaphor that we can all understand. Think of how dry your mouth feels after hard work on a hot day. Your body’s fluids and electrolytes are imbalanced; if they don’t regain balance, you could experience neurological or kidney problems. “Water,” your body cries out, “I need water!”
During Lent we focus on our thirst for God. Think of how weary your spirit feels when you over-extend yourself in work and relationships, pushing to meet deadlines and to satisfy others’ expectations. Your perspective is imbalanced, and if you don’t regain balance, you could experience skewed thinking and make hurtful choices. “God,” your spirit cries out, “I need God!”
A caution: be sure that your thirst is truly for God. Some say they are thirsting for God, but are really pursuing certainty of belief or an emotional high or safety and security. Jesus taught us that God is love, and he said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness.” Focus your thirst on love and on righteousness and you will truly be thirsting for God.
A reassurance: God is thirsting for you. Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep is your story and my story. A favorite hymn of Goshen College students says:
I sought the Lord, and afterward I knew
He moved my soul to seek him, seeking me.
It was not I that found, O Savior true,
No, I was found of thee.
May the Lenten devotionals this week both deepen your thirst for God and satisfy that thirst.