It has been a while.

I love this verse:

"Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:24

Growing up, I probably would have taken this out of context and applied it to whatever desire or craving I had at the time, but as I read through John 16 this morning, I was comforted and challenged  by Jesus' own words to his disciples. He is talking to them about his return to the Father and the entry of the Holy Spirit into their lives. Jesus' closest friends are getting worried by his seemingly cryptic message, but he assures them that they will not be left alone. I love that. 

His words still apply today. He didn't leave us alone, and we are not powerless. I think I forget to ask The Comforter to enter into my day-to-day situations, because I'm fearful that the "comfort" I receive will not come in the form that I had hoped. And that is when I come to grips with a harsh reality that is hidden in the depths of who I am: I don't believe Jesus has good things for me, because I don't live 'loved'. I don't always see myself as He does- complete, entire, and lacking in no good thing (in Him).  I don't trust that He is always there, and because of that, my fear drives me to live in discontentment, shame, and the feeling that I owe Him.

So, as I read Jesus' words today, I will ask something in His name- fill me, equip me, and strenthen me by the power of your Holy Spirit, that my joy may be full. I want to know that comfort in a real way. I want to embrace each day with trust and openness to whatever lies ahead, because The Comforter is here! He is real, and he is the One who equips us for whatever we may face.

May you know how loved you are today. May you experience the power and strength He offers. May you live 'loved'. And when you ask something in His name, may you believe that He hears you and longs to bring you joy.