The merging of much

“There are more people converted from mortal sin to grace, then there are religious converted from good to better.”

 

This quote was taken from my new favorite book, “Deep Conversion, Deep Prayer.” Granted I feel that excitement about most books I end up reading concerning communion and deep prayer because I long to be a mystic.

 

But I feel so moved when I consider the hope of growing in measure on the inside. I have always been a person focused on change; trying to become the best me I can be. While living in
San Francisco, I fear I got sidetrack by starting to lean on the ways of man and his wisdom rather then the truth of Christ.

 

Now that I feel like I am back on the path of becoming like Jesus, it is encouraging to read books about those in the faith that are so far beyond my place of sanctification.

 

Pastor Bill came to visit IHOP this weekend. I was a bit sad I did not get to chat with him, but they asked us not to attend the incredibly packed out conference.  I did get to listen to him on the web and was warmed to hear familiar stories and statements.

 

“We owe the world an encounter with God,” he said, along with so many other one liners meant to stir up faith and passion.

 

With such a different world view, I sat listening to recognizable words of a man who changed me so, trying to digest how it al fits together. Before IHOP there were questions deep inside my heart that had never been answered. There was only silence to my big “why” questions I always came back to about where the world is headed and if the revival culture is just suppose to be a perpetual never ending cycle. Now that I live here, those big picture questions have been answered in the midst of a revelation of Christ and His return. I have never got it like I do now, but understand I have just scratched the surface.

 

I have come to the conclusion that there must be a marriage between the revelation of intimacy with Christ, setting our life on the path of preparing our souls for His return and becoming those who desire to see the lost and saved set free both in body, soul and spirit. All of this must be grounded in a life of hidden, consistent prayer. Gazing and becoming a friend of God should move us to see others healed and brought into an encounter with the One we love.

 

My heart also is set on the truth that we must merge together the focus on this present life with the eternal realm. Something Mike has brought more and more into the forefront of my thinking is our eternal call. This is not something I ever gave much thought or focus. But if we only set our attention on this age, we are likely to become sucked into allowing ministry to be the goal. With an eternal perspective, we have the freedom and grace to be set on the conversion of our souls in sanctification along with touching people with the glory of our Lord.

 

I am excited that Bill brought a tangible action to IHOP. Praying for the sick is simple, yet a bit uncomfortable and I love how he explains it. My heart has been more moved in contending for healing living in Kansas City then it ever was in Redding. I want to be a woman set on seeing Jesus touch people, while I continue to give Him my heart and mind.