you are more than your deepest shame…

“The devil may use the hurts of life, and sometimes our own mistakes – to make you feel it is impossible that Jesus loves you, is really cleaving to you. This is a danger for all of us. And so sad, because it is completely opposite of what Jesus is really wanting, waiting to tell you. Not only does he love you, but even more – he longs for you. He misses you when you don’t come close. He thirsts for you. He loves you always, even when you don’t feel worthy. When not accepted by others, even yourself sometimes – He is the one who always accepts you. My children, you don’t have to be different for Jesus to love you. “ St. Teresa of Calcutta

Yesterday was a good day. I was honored to give two talks for the woman of St Phillips in Falls Church, VA for their annual Women’s Retreat. I was deeply moved and humbled by the beautiful women I met yesterday and their openness to receiving God’s redemption and forgiveness in their lives. Their kind words and encouragement meant the world to me. My heart is full and I am very grateful to God for the gift of yesterday.

Sometimes I get stuck in feeling unworthy of this gift of ministry. Sometimes I struggle to separate my own ego and human need for affirmation from what God needs me to do and say. Knowing that about myself, I took a different path in my preparation this time and God Blessed it in abundance.

My one prayer the entire day was “Lord let them know that they are more than their deepest shame. Let them know that they are enough right where they sit, your beautiful daughters. Help them claim freedom over their what separates them from you.” *

In each talk, I revealed few scars as I stood in the redemptive grace of Our Lord Jesus. I am constantly reminded that His grace is sufficient in ALL things. We just need to ask for it.

Ask my friends. Ask the Lord into the one thing you refuse to let go of, that thing you’ve been carrying around so long that you’ve gotten used to the weight of it. Give it over yo the Compassionate Heart of Jesus and let Him transform you in grace. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made. *
Ask me how I know….