"It is our deepest need, as human beings, to learn to live intimately with God. It is what we were made for. Back in the beginning of our story...there was a paradise called Eden. In that garden of life as it was meant to be, there lived the first man and woman. Their story is important to us because whatever it was they were, and whatever it was they had, we also were meant to be and to have. And what they enjoyed above all the other delights of that place was this - they walked with God. They talked with him, and he with them." (ix, Introduction)
What saddens me today is that not only are so many people still so far away from God (Eden to today is one major road trip) but communication today - with all of its technological gadgetry and wizardry - has taken the context of communicating and siloed people from one another in ways that are alarming.
"Call me." The world is so busy it usually goes to voicemail.
"Text me." Complete sentences and punctuation aren't even required anymore.
"Email me." And the inbox assault continues, piling on, putting people further behind.
God, in his scandalous grace and and fierce glory, wants ME...my voice, my walk, right there in step and Spirit with him. He doesn't give a flip how many apps I have on my smart phone. He doesn't want to wait until I have my emails caught up. He certainly wants to say things deeper into my heart that far exceed 150 characters.
Only from learning to be still and know - listen - walk with God have I found that what Eldredge says makes sense. Many people (especially in the church) feel that God no longer speaks...or that the only way he speaks to those who love and follow him is through Scripture. I do believe that the Bible is the foundational truth for all in Christ to follow - but to be told that God no longer speaks isn't true or biblical.
'The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.' (John 10:2-4 NIV)
If God is walking, then has he stopped talking?? Not for me...I follow because I have begun to listen...deeply, intimately, courageously and faithfully. Conversational intimacy with God is not only real, but part of our original design and birthright. So, unplug from the PC and the smart phone and the TV...ask him if he would like to walk and talk with you. I seriously doubt you'll get voicemail!!
Strength & Honor!
For more on John Eldredge, his books & resources from Ransomed Heart Ministries, please visit:
RansomedHeart.com
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