Dear Friends,
I am looking forward to our retreat coming up next weekend September 20-22. And I am continuing to think about identity as God’s beloved. If you were not at the adult service on August 18, and regardless of whether you will be joining us at the retreat, I encourage you to watch this video of Henri Nouwen speaking at the Crystal Cathedral in 1992. "Being the Beloved" (FULL SERMON Part One) | Henri Nouwen at the Crystal Cathedral
We tend to look to accomplishments, the opinions of others, possessions, and many other things to find identity and meaning. But, our true identity, what we were created to be, and what we have been called to become is beloved. At the retreat we will talk about aspects of the life of the beloved, beginning with being chosen by God. Reflecting on this theme, I have been reading Song of Songs 2:10 (NIV) for a few weeks now.
My beloved spoke and said to me,
“Arise my darling, my beautiful one, come with me.”
God’s love for us is personal, passionate, and specific to us as individuals. It isn’t just a warm feeling toward humanity in general but like a parent’s unique love for their own child or a spouse’s love for their own husband or wife. God has chosen you. God desires you. God adores you. God longs for you. And God has invited you into a love relationship with the great hope that God’s affection will be returned.
Take a minute to re-read this verse from Song of Songs a few times and to receive it as a personal call to come and follow Jesus.
Pray with me if you like.
God, help me to believe that you love me in a deep and personal way - that you are enthralled with me even more than a parent is smitten with their own child and more than a devoted husband or wife delights in their partner. Help me to receive your love and to let your love define who I am day in and day out regardless of any other circumstance. Teach me to become love as you are love. Amen.
Love in Christ,
Michelle
