Sunrise from our window
As I continued studying the Sermon on the Mount yesterday, cross-references led me to Psalm 27:4-5:
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
The phrase “all the days of my life” brought me up short. I felt aggravated about things that were out of my control. A person wanted their way, and they wouldn’t take no for an answer. So be it—they got their way, and I found it frustrating.
Though someone’s actions got on my nerves, every day I may ask the Lord if I may dwell in His house. In His presence. By the power of the Holy Spirit in me. God’s comforting presence prevailed after the conviction subsided. I drew close to Him again.
When situations and reactions force me to see my human failings, when I am reminded of my sinful nature that wants to rule (but won’t, by grace and faith), I remember my purpose. It is revealed in these verses: to see God’s beauty, to live in awareness of His presence, and seek to be closer to Him by gazing at His beauty. In her book, Revelations of Divine Love, Julian of Norwich writes, “We love our Maker and seek Him, praise Him, and thank Him, and endlessly enjoy Him.” My prayer: Lord, may I enjoy You today and all the days of my life.
A Goldilocks Life 
So true! I have to remember that every new encounter that demands me to willingly set aside my own desires – like when someone else’s wishes clash with mine, or when someone else is chosen over me, or when someone’s comfort inconveniences me – offers me an opportunity to embrace glory. It’s a moment to invite the presence of the Lord and say, “Come in, Lord Jesus. Reign in my heart.” This is how I am transformed, saved, and moved from one level of glory to the next.
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Yes, Nancy, may we let Jesus reign. Glory to His name!
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