:: Joy of the Journey: Friendship + Intimacy

"Do not think I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say unto you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:17-19

This may feel like watching your life flash before your eyes. Least in heaven. Can you imagine that?

  Jesus said, "Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many that take it. For the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few that find it." (Matt 7:13-14)
  The way of the law and the prophets is a narrow road; but there is a joy to be found in the journey. While we walk, run, trip, rest, battle, repeat, we begin to cultivate a relationship with a man: Jesus. We learn the things He loves, and we learn the things He hates. We talk with Him. Intimacy is formed.
  I don't know about you, but the more time I spend with a person, the deeper I get to know them. As I get older and friendships are made with new people, I am learning what a sacred thing one-on-one time is to a relationship. It is such a necessity! When I spend time with my friend, I understand their heart: their struggles and joys; and I can share it with them!
  This kind of relational intimacy is what God longs for with us. He wants sacred time to talk and share our hearts.

 The law is a piece of the Father's heart. He wants justice and righteousness to reign on the earth. He yearns for the day the words of His prophets will all be fulfilled. To know the law is to know the holy standard of God's heart. It is our inheritance to know the deeps things of God (1 Corinthians 2:10-16), and live as holy sacrifices to Him. (Romans 12:1-2)

"You desire truth in my inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart." Psalm 51:6

"Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart." Psalm 119:34

Further up and further in,
Sarah Raye Fuller

(this blog post is dedicated to Jessica Nicole Mills; I miss you so much, dear sister)