A Picture of God’s Character

At church this evening we spent time in prayer as a body. It was a great time of intercession and much Kingdom business was done. As we were praying the Lord reminded me that it has been 6 months since my daughter’s accident. I was reflecting on the memory of that day and the Lord showed me a bit more of His character.

I remember that day quite clearly. We were in bed that morning as we received the knock on the door that our daughter was in an accident. All I could think about was getting there and seeing if she was okay. Once there at the scene and seeing her laying there in the ambulance was a moment I shall not soon forget. I remember the trip to the hospital and all the thoughts that crossed my mind. I remember starting to sing the song Blessed be Thy Name. I was trusting in the Lord and believing in His care and love for Her. It was a long 25 minute ride.

Well, there were many things that happened that day, but this is the picture the Lord gave me today of His character. Let me explain.

When I was in the hospital room with my daughter as we waited for them to care for her, I remember looking into her eyes as she began to weep. I looked at her wondering if she was in pain or what the sudden gush of tears was for and said, “what’s wrong”? She looked at me with those tear filled eyes and said “I’m so sorry mom.” I sat wondering for a moment what she could be thinking. I realized she was sorry for the accident yes, but she was also sorry for wrecking the car, our main transportation as a family. She was sorry for everything that was happening and for being in this terrible place, unsure of what the future would bring.

As I thought of this moment the Lord showed me how we are the same way when we find ourselves in a horrible place because of sin, disobedience or pride. How at these time when we are at the end of a road that is not where we wished to be, and all we can do is sob in sorrow for our mistakes, wrong choices, outright disobedience. We look at our heavenly Father and we cry out “Oh Lord I’m so sorry.” And how does He respond?

Well, as my daughter looked at me with those tears, I reassured her because that is what she was looking for. I remember her saying “Aren’t you mad at me?” My answer being, “I’m just thankful that you are here with us and that you are alright.” Isn’t that what our Father God does when we return to Him. He reassures us of His love and rejoices in our return to Him. Remember the story of the prodigal son...

Luke 15:20
So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. "The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.

What a beautiful picture right? The Lord is ready and willing to receive us with open arms. He reassures us of His love and tells us how glad He is to have us back.

My daughter walked out of that hospital a miracle. There was no reason for her to do so because the accident was severe. God was merciful and she was able to walk away with only a few bruises. After the initial stuff that had to be done and dealt with, the accident hasn’t been a topic of discussion at our house. We haven’t reminded her that it was it was her fault, nor have we forbidden her from driving. In fact, I remember that we made her drive (Yes, I said made, by me getting in the passenger’s seat and refusing to drive her home.) We encouraged her that she could drive again and she would be alright.

This is how the Lord encourages us when we return to Him. He encourages us to get back in the race and back on our feet.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;

You know there were consequences from the accident. There was paper work…Oh, the paper work. The phone calls and the doctor bills. The learning to drive a stick shift because our other vehicle is a standard. And yes, our family has had to deal with the effects of her accident also, as many times those around us will suffer because of our sin and disobedience. Yet, we can rest assured that the Lord forgives us and cleanses us thoroughly.

I John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

I may not always remember the details of the accident, but I pray that I will remember this picture He has shown me today.

Lord, thank you. Thank you that you love us so much. That you are a merciful and forgiving God and that you are for us and not against us. I can rest in your love for me and I know that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Help me to remember always what you have showed me about yourself today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Blessings,
Mara