Sometimes You Just Need Some Holy Ground!

Since the loss of my father, I have been on a journey to find – redefine – reconnect – with God. I feel compelled to share what happened this past Saturday morning. I experienced something amazing.

This past Saturday morning was beautiful. Adding to the beauty of the morning, I finished a chapter in Rita Platt’s book, “I Am His.”

In a chapter entitled, “Through Abba’s Eyes,”  Rita says, “. . . as I’ve grown to know Abba, I’ve learned He doesn’t show me my sin to shame me into despair; His goal is redemption. He cleanses me, forms me, and gives life. He is an expert artist shaping me. Sometimes I can almost feel His hands molding me, reassuring me that although He sees all of me, I’m loved and touchable.”

She suggested reading Isaiah 61:3 and to let the next few moments become holy ground. So I did.

This stoop, along with a carpet and a small throw pillow, became holy ground. The plants in their pots became a symbol of Isaiah 61:3 – the basis of the ceremony:
“… and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

Here’s what she suggested, and in God’s timing – which was Saturday, May 12 – I was ready.

In His Arms, page 83:

	Fall to your knees before Abba and imagine all the ashes of your life swept away.
	As you bow before your Father, imagine a crown of beauty placed on your head.
	Feel it settle in on your hair and consider how you are defined by this crown of beauty now.
	Let the oil of gladness wash over you and receive the garment of praise.
Let your aching spirit be immersed in life and cloaked in joy.
Say out loud, “I am Your daughter, Abba Father, crowned, anointed, clothed, and eternally displayed as Your cherished work of art.

I received a spirit of thankfulness and joy unlike I have had in ages. Now all I need to do to renew this spirit is to step outside my kitchen door onto holy ground.

What a beautiful day!