Yesterday I was at my favorite local coffee joint doing some journaling. The following is dialogue between God and I during that time.
Me: How may times must I fall just to get back up? How often must I be broken to heal?
God: As many times as it takes.
Me: Is this because you love me?
God: Only because I love you. But, your relationship with me is dependent on your effort and my might.
Me: Does this mean that I must want you as much as you want me?
God: That is simply impossible, my love and desire for you cannot be matched nor comprehended.
Me: "My effort" seems like such a religious and legalistic term...
God: Your effort, as in seeking and relying on me - for everything..
God: It's like climbing a mountain. You take the steps, one foot in front of the other (your effort), and I'll be your guide; your own personal mountain guide. At times the trail may become treacherous, but I created this mountain, therefore I know it best. I know the trail, even in darkness; allow me to be your light. And don't worry, if you fall I am more than capable of healing you. But you must stay with me and beside me always, least you wonder off the path and I'm not there to catch you if you fall.
God: Everyday that we set out in-route, I will have a plan for you. This plan is similar to the convey/mission briefings you had while in Iraq. Talk to me, and I will tell you the dangers of the trail that day; what to be aware of, the challenges we must face and how to overcome them. We will have scheduled stops and rest points- sometimes planned and others spontaneous. Along the trail each day I will show you the beauty of the mountain; points of interest, and new opportunities for you to learn and grow. God: But, like I said... you must walk with me. Not in front or behind me, but next to me so you can continually hear my voice and guidance. I made you this way. For this. Adventurous.
Me: Awesome.
Now, change the "Me" to "You". We were all made to be adventurous in God.
