Natalie Ryan

Take five minutes to clear the clutter from the day—the events, the dog barking, the conversations, the background noise. Clear your mind. Then take five minutes to just listen and to just be. What is God saying to you? What seeds are being planted? Finish with five minutes to name to what God may be inviting you.

God said “I choose you” to Mary, and Mary said it back. Jesus said “I choose you” to Peter and Andrew, and they said it back. Mary, Peter, and Andrew meant it so much so that they gave their lives for Jesus.

What would my relationship with my parents, friends, significant other, children be if I didn’t tell them that I love them? The same goes for our relationship with God.

The seasons contain life, death, and transformation. Crisp, cold air rushes; limbs begin to bud; Flowers bloom; leaves wave in the summer breeze; cold air returns once again. God sets all in motion.

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not harm you,’” Jeremiah 29:11. Living in accordance with God’s plans means to cooperate with God.