Ephesians 2.1, 4-5, 10 “Once you were dead because of your disobedience . . . But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that . . . he gave us life . . . For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Did anyone listen to the Joni CD that I linked in the last post? Here are some lines from the song I wanted you to find (by Joni Eareckson Tada):
Oh Lord, dear Lord, great author of the play
May I in wisdom learn the only part that I need play
Is the part that you wrote for me, the part that you wrote for me.
God gave life to both Joni and Karis in unusual circumstances (that on the face of them don’t seem to reflect God’s mercy) to accomplish unique purposes that would not have happened without their disabilities. Check out JoniandFriends.org if you’re not aware of her amazing ministry. Ephesians 2:10 is one Scripture that is behind this song of Joni’s; Psalm 139:16 is another: You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
What do you think of this—the idea that God has a specific role for you to play in his great drama? In Joni’s song, she realizes she doesn’t have to try to play other people’s roles; only her own. And that God is directing her, showing her how to play her part.
This morning I woke up eager to post what I had already written, only to discover that I have lost over fifty posts—months of work!—I had already prepared in advance of my busy fall schedule. My “But God” document contains a total of three pages! I don’t know what my laptop did with all my work! It’s not in the trash or the recycle bin or anywhere. I can’t possibly reproduce all the stories and wise thoughts (ha ha) that God gave me over the last several months.
I am stunned—but I’m looking to the playwright to show me how to play this part of my script. It’s another opportunity to learn my biggest, ongoing life lesson: trust. How will “now this!” weave its way into his big story? I don’t quite see it, but I know he does! And whether in his rich mercy he restores this part of my life to me, or doesn’t, I will have one more But God reason to praise him.
By the way, please don’t flood me with suggestions for how to recuperate my work. I have two very savvy sons-in-law who can help me if anyone can. Thanks!
Debra Kornfield 