Homework Assignment
By Grace Andrews of Independence, MO, USA
“Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” —Mark 4:38–41 NRSV
When we accept by faith that God loves each of us individually, accepts and values us for who we are, we are getting close to realizing the greatness of God’s love.
It was a turbulent time in my life. Weighty problems tumbled in on me like heavy waves. I felt I was drowning. I longed for God’s reassurance. In desperation I called out to my Heavenly Parent, “I need your help, God. Please help me!”
Unexpectedly, a beloved minister from another state appeared at our door, saying he just felt he needed to stop by and see us. Unable to hide my frustrations, I poured out my heart to him. He lovingly wrapped his arms around me, saying, “I’m going to give you an assignment. For one week, I want you to repeat ‘God loves me!’ several times each day and before you lie down each night until you believe it.”
Today, I cannot remember what circumstance had weighed so heavily on me. But I remember the experience of repeating many times each day, “God loves me.” I have come to realize that God will never withdraw unconditional and eternal love from any person. God never changes because I have a bad day, have doubts, or am plagued with life’s issues. God’s love for us goes on 24/7. When circumstances swallow you up and you have no hope, get ready for a blessing.
Prayer for Peace
Divine Parent, if you ever have a bad day, remember we love you, too.
Spiritual Practice: Love
Reflect on the love of God. How is it that God sent Christ to be “all our loves exceeding”? How do you see God’s love revealed in Christ? How do you reveal God’s love in your life? Think of ways you can express that love as you prepare for the Son of God—Love’s Pure Light. Thank God for the supreme gift of love: Jesus Christ.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, when problems storm around me, I will say, “Peace, be still! God loves me.”
Assignment complete!
