I have pondered the gift of breathing a lot over the past several months.  I have lost many friends to COVID and seen many suffer from COVID pneumonia.  Then, the dreadful virus came into our home this past Christmas.  My husband and I were down for two weeks.  I had pneumonia, so I struggled for air and could not sleep anywhere but in the recliner.  I am still not where I need to be, but I am slowly improving.  I was fortunate enough to be able to recover at home, unlike so many others who are hospitalized.  One thing I have learned to appreciate during my recovery is the beauty of breathing, which is something I took for granted until it became a challenge.   Now, I would say breathing is more forward in my thinking and the first thing I thank God for each morning.  “Lord, thank you for life.  Thank you for giving me breath today, for it assures my heart that You have something great for me to do for You today.  Lord, lead me, guide me, and teach me.  Amen”

These are now my first words each morning.  Waking up while it’s still dark outside is a pleasure I have long enjoyed.  I am not a coffee drinker, but a cup of hot cocoa, or a cup of warm water with lemon and honey is comforting.  My mind is wide awake and already has begun praising the God of the universe.  My feet tap a rhythm of joyful dance, and my tongue sings softly a melody of heartfelt love to my King.  These quiet mornings with my Heavenly Father fill my cup to overflowing and set my feet straight for the day.  When I miss these moments, I feel out of sync;  I feel lost, confused and wayward.  So, I seek to be with Him first, for its this personal time I have with Him that allows me to breathe all day!  

I am thankful for the air I breathe, the place in life He has me, and the plan He has for my life.  It is a comfort to sit with my Father and share, listen, and experience His rejoicing over me.  As I listen to the hearts of those around me, I am challenged to pray and invite the same joy to wrap around their shoulders like a warm and cozy blanket.  

It is my prayer that you will also experience the warm embrace of your Abba Daddy in an intimate and peaceful way, as you deeply breathe in the air He gives you, and sit and talk with Him daily like a good friend.

Joyfully Healing From the Inside Out,