Stay at the Source

Sometimes I have to remind myself that I live on the Source.

Yes, Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world is the source of the Nile River, the world's longest river. Wow. And I live on that lake and just a few miles from the Nile. Sometimes I think I should pinch myself because I too often take for granted these amazing facts and the significance of where I live.

In the distance can be seen where Lake Victoria empties into the Nile River. The river is in the foreground.

And I often need to pinch myself spiritually - to remind myself to stay at the Source - with Jesus, my Savior and Shepherd.

I get busy. I get distracted. And before long I find I have drifted - away, too far from the Source. The One who saved me, rescued me, redeemed me, restored me, called me, and planned His good purposes for me long before I was even born.

"Through Him (Jesus) all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind." - John 1:3-4

At the same time I have drifted away, I discover myself down in the dust - having tripped and fallen yet again. I let my temper fly. Spouted harsh words to a friend. Allowed impatience to cut short a potential meaningful conversation. Ignored a prime chance to show love, grace, gentleness. Found myself too busy preparing for "ministry" that I barreled over an opportunity right at my doorstep or under my nose.

This "drifting" reminds me of SHIM's two guard dogs, Jack and Simba, German Shepherd brothers. We bought them as puppies last year and they are now strong, healthy, and sometimes intimidating (which is what you want in guard dog), but they don't like staying home. They would rather be at the school, in the nearby village, or terrorizing the neighbors - exactly the opposite of where they are supposed to be, doing what they were purchased to do.

Jack and Simba taking it easy on a recent hot day.

I wonder if God looks at our "best efforts," our busyness, our crowded calendars, minds and hearts and shakes His head. "You are not where you are supposed to be. You are not doing what I designed and created you to do."

And then He gently takes us by the hand and leads us back. Back to where we belong. Back to Him.

It's foolish to think I can thrive apart from the Source. I can't even survive apart from Him - the Giver of all life.

Lately I have been teaching this song to my girls in Bible study and it seems to fit this post.

Jesus Be The Centre

Jesus, be the centre
Be my source, be my light
Jesus  

Jesus, be the centre
Be my hope, be my song
Jesus  

(Chorus)
Be the fire in my heart
Be the wind in these sails
Be the reason that I live
Jesus, Jesus  

Jesus, be my vision
Be my path, be my guide
Jesus  

(Chorus)
Be the fire in my heart
Be the wind in these sails
Be the reason that I live
Jesus, Jesus 

Jesus, be the centre
Be my source, be my light
Jesus 

 

Be my source, be my light
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus