I've been heads down working on new Sunday School lessons since December (hence the scarcity of posts). One of the series that my wife and I are working on is called Christian Fundamentals. Not the world's best title but it's a follow-up series for our gospel lessons based on The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus by John R. Cross. At the end of the The Stranger, the class now understands the gospel and believes. But the immediate question is: "What do I do now that I believe?" That's where Christian Fundamentals comes in to answer those questions and show what new believers should do to get closer to God.
One of the things we talk about is seeking God's face daily. And the phrase I lit upon was from Brother Lawrence's book, Practicing the Presence of God.
That title really struck a chord with me. As I wrote the lesson, I started to work out for myself just how to practise his presence. God is always here with me. It was just a matter of me “invoking my own presence” as author Mark Buchanan puts it in his book Your God is too Safe.
It is sweet to be in God’s presence. It is sweet to be able to relate to him throughout the day, sharing problems and sensing him respond in many different ways. I asked him for some advice on a work matter. Within the day, I had a chance to get feedback and advice from a colleague. Just one example of how I could hear God respond when I spent time tuning in to him.
I’m learning as I prepare the lessons. I’m learning to seek his face. Instead of just glancing generally in God’s direction, to really focus, like a twist of the camera lens to bring him into sharp relief.
1 Chronicle 22:19
Now set your mind and heart to seek the Lord your God.
Colossians 3:1–2
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
