In the geneology section, in Genesis, there is a phrase, mentioned twice, that has intrigued me for a long time. “Enoch walked with God.”
Gen 5: 21 -24
What would it be like to walk with God? What would it look like? This has led me to think about my own journey with God. I yearned for that kind of relationship. There is a hint of it in the story of Adam and Eve before the fall. There is a sense of it in the story of David and through the Psalms he wrote.

And Jesus invites us into that sort of relationship in John 15:1-17. Specifically, in verse 4 “Abide in me as I abide in you.” I have been moving toward this with Ephesians 3: 15-1 9, and with the theme of Saturation - wanting to be filled with all the fullness of God.
As I meditate on the invitational phrase, “Abide in me as I abide in you,” letting it sink into me, different scripture has come to mind. As this is the theme of the next Art and Faith retreat in June, it is also a part of the preparation process for me.
One of the themes of abiding with Jesus that scripture stories were showing me, is living in this present moment with God and trusting in God for the next step.

This brings me to this spring...

We have taken on a few big projects and the normal ones were still in place. (taxes, renovation project – Reena’s room and my art room, teaching and visiting our granddaughter to name a few)
I felt like I should be anxious, or panicked and rushing around to do everything that needed doing. Instead, I had a sense of peace, as I walked into each day and talked with God, and we tackled one thing at a time. I take the breaks I need to to take care of myself. I have the list of what needs to happen when, but I am working on living in this moment, and doing my best right now, here in this moment.

I will admit, some days I can do this better than other days. It also helps to admit we cannot do it all alone, we need others. 

We have two weeks to finish the reno and put everything back into place before our company comes. Will we get it done? I hope so, but it won’t help if I panic. Nor will it help if I overwork myself, and re-injure myself.

 
What about you? Are you able to live in this moment? What would it be like for you to abide in Jesus?