Grace

Tonight was my Wesley class.  I'm learning so much about how Methodism started and why Methodists believe the way they (we) do!  I had learned the basics, but I'm actually enjoying delving deeper into it. 
Tonight we talked about grace.  And, with that topic in mind, the story of the prodigal son came up.  Someone in the class mentioned what a struggle her husband has with that parable- to the point where he physically looks upset.  When asked who he would be in the parable, she said he was the bitter older brother.  And, that led us to an awesome miracle story.  Another class member shared her experience with bitterness.  It was when her close friend was getting a divorce and she ended up holding on to the bitterness for her friend's ex- husband even after her friend had let it go.  And, then one day he was in the hospital 48 hours from death.  She went with her friend for moral support.  And, in that hospital room something my words cannot do justice happened.  She asked the minister to pray because she felt they all needed healing.  When she was alone with him while her friend and the minister stepped out, she held his hand and he said "I love you."  And, right then, she had an epiphany- a realization that there should be no bitterness in her.  And, she responded that she loved him, too.  Her anger and bitterness that had been consuming her was released and she felt free!  After that was when she found our church.  She knew God had touched her life and she knew she wanted to connect more.  If that wasn't amazing enough, the man ended up not dying and is alive and well 8 years later!
This story spoke to me.  I know how bitterness can be consuming.  I've seen it, I've felt it, and I've been consumed by it.  And, most of the time now, I think it's not there.  But, sometimes it creeps in when I least expect it.  But, what a freedom I would feel to know for sure it's gone! 
So, where was God today?  I feel that story was something He wanted me to hear.  Call it a reminder; call it a wakeup call.  Some things just have to be let go.  If I am happy with where I am, I have to be happy with where I've been and what I've been through to get me here.                                                                   Luke 15:31-32

Common English Bible (CEB)

³¹ Then his father said, ‘Son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. ³² But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive. He was lost and is found.’”

Blessings,
Jennifer