The Never Ending Gifts

Ever since I was a girl, I’ve been intrigued by stories where characters stumble into different worlds, such as Narnia. As a teen, I was introduced to the theory of parallel universes—other worlds co-existing in the space of our own. Back then, I remember turning quickly while squinting my eyes to see if I could catch a glimpse of such a place.

Now, would you think I was crazy if I told you I’ve actually been living in a parallel universe this week? Well, I have. This other world is amazing. It has the same physical laws—such as gravity—and looks similar, but in most ways it’s very different.

For one thing, the colors are brighter. The excitement of miracles energizes the air. Hope shines like the sun. Doom and gloom can’t compete so they flee.

This other world is ruled by a king—a very good king. Back in the regular world, politicians seem to have gone crazy, and turmoil reigns. But in my parallel world, the wise king has a well thought out plan—for the good of everyone—that extends all the way to both worlds. Under his authority I feel safe.

This king’s wisdom is not the same as ours—in fact it seems quite topsy-turvy. The poor are rich. The leaders are servants. The last are first.

The way of living here is different too. Giving is better than receiving. Instead of hating those who are out to get me, I’m encouraged to love them. In fact, the law of the land can be summed up in one word—love.

I’m not the only one who’s found the way to this parallel world. Lots of people pop in and out, as I have in the past, usually in times of crisis. And the place is hopping on Sunday mornings when joyous music fills the air. I sometimes see the familiar faces of those who hang out here on a regular basis. No matter what’s happening in the old world, they seem to rise up and glow.

By now you’ve probably figured out this parallel world is the Kingdom of God. It turns out I’ve been a citizen of this place for many years—ever since I first invited Jesus into my life as my Lord and Savior. Back then I was transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of God’s Son (Colossians 1:13), but for one reason or another I haven’t spent much time here until now.

If this new world is so great, why haven’t I made a point to focus my eyes on Jesus and stay here more often? Is it because I still believe I can find my heart’s desire in the regular world? Do I enjoy the control of working in my own strength? Am I so used to trudging along in the mud that I don’t realize I can live another way?

A few years ago while traveling in Australia, I learned of the opal mining town of Coober Pedy. Located in the dry desolate Outback, the majority of its citizens live underground. The subterranean city has everything they need—houses, shops, and even churches. Many people spend their life down there digging for treasure they never find.

I’m tired of digging around in the dirt, struggling with anxiety in this old, regular world. I’d been trying for some time to live in God’s presence, but I didn’t know how—until now. During the last few weeks, my “connecting with God” challenge (Aug.13 blog post) provided the means for me to spend much more of my day with Jesus, and the result has been life changing.

Life feels different when I’m aware that God is with me. I smile a lot more, and friendly encouraging words bubble out when I speak. My heart overflows with gratitude, and blessings pop up all around—somehow they’re easier to see.

When trouble arises, I more quickly turn to my Heavenly Father. Then my anxiety dissipates and peace takes its place as his presence and perspective carry me through.

As I get more in tune with the Holy Spirit, the words in my Bible make more sense. God’s truth reaches down and revives my heart.

Today is October 10^th—10/10. I’ve declared this date “Abundant Life Day” because of John 10:10, where Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (ESV). I’m ready to set up camp in the Kingdom and embrace life to the full. I’m ready for more.