In this parable the elder brother lived as a servant more than a son of his Father.  He was unable to receive the fullness of life that his dad wanted to give him because it seems that he had not cultivated his relationship with his father.  He didn't know his father's heart... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/2023adventchallenge

“Lord you have probed me you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My travels and my rest you mark; with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, Lord, you know it all. Behind and before you encircle me and rest your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me….” Ps 139:1-6

Today’s scripture calls us to contemplate being known and loved in ALL THINGS. We all desire to be known and loved, but often there are places in our hearts and minds that we hope that no one will ever know, places of shame and embarrassment, thoughts and desires we wish we didn’t have. We keep these places locked up and hidden, and thus there is a place deep inside where many of us think, “If you really knew me, you wouldn’t love me…”

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He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses,* in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. 2 Cor 12:9

Please do not allow your times of brokenness and weakness be an obstacles to you receiving my love. They aren’t an obstacle for me, so don’t allow them to be an obstacle for you… Consider times in your life where you have felt truly loved. Were they not times when you were weak or broken, and someone was there beside you... times when you failed but someone stood by your side saying they believed in you and wanted to stand with you? Do you not feel the most loved when you are weak or sick and someone comes to be with you, even though you are too weak to offer them anything in return? See that in these moments of weakness are opportunities to receive a depth of love this IS NOT POSSIBLE IN MOMENTS OF STRENGTH...

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Do you not know that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? Rom 2:4

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But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, Jacob, and formed you, Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine. When you pass through waters, I will be with you; through rivers, you shall not be swept away. When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor will flames consume you... You are precious in my eyes and honored, and I love you. (Is 43:1-2, 4)

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Today’s meditation leads us into an encounter with the love of God, who speaks our identity over us in the same way he did over Jesus at his baptism in the Jordan River. Even before there was ever a recorded miracle, sign, or eloquent preaching from Jesus, God spoke His love and pleasure over Him. Jesus began His ministry FROM the place of security in His Father’s love. He didn’t go out trying to earn that love or pleasure. Jesus knew God loved Him and was pleased with Him and allowed this knowledge to propel Him forward.

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Get into a quiet and comfortable place to listen to today's mediation via the links below. It will take about 15 minutes from beginning to end. It's a bit longer than usual, but I wanted to help you dive a little deeper as we wrap up week 1 of this challenge. I know that you will be blessed as you set aside this time to commune with the Lord.  In the meditation you will be guided into an encounter with the Lord in Matthew's Gospel Chapter 11, verses 28-30. Close your eyes and allow yourself to enter into the secret place with the Lord today.  Jesus wants to take your burdens and offer you his deep peace and rest. Won't you accept His invitation?...

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Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

My child, I see the fear and hesitation that have been rising up in your heart lately. Do you not remember that I am with you? I see you moving toward hopes, dreams and goals in your life that you long for, and I watch you pause and hesitate instead of moving toward them with full confidence. I am with you and have also placed those dreams and desires in your heart. Do not be afraid. Do you not know that I am your loving Father who will walk with you and protect you?

To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/2023adventchallenge