You will find God

Today's reading: Jeremiah 26-29

When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29: 13 NRSV

How comforting these words are amidst one of the better known passages from Jeremiah. We need to be reminded that these words were not spoken to an individual but an entire nation, a people who had been called by God. And these words were for those who were about to suffer exile and great calamity.

If you have ever suffered greatly or experienced what is known as the dark night of the soul, you may be able to relate well to this verse. Perhaps you searched for God and found God during that time of your life. These words may speak deeply to your own soul.

But my question to the rest of us is this: How hard are we really searching for God? Are we seeking God with all of our heart? Or are we giving lip service to this scripture? Do we search and seek half-heartedly knowing that we can do more deeply and fully next Sunday or during Christmastime? Are our spiritual lives only as deep as the last retreat we experienced? How whole-heartedly do we continue to want God in our lives and our souls?

God, we say we are searching for you. We act as though we are seeking you. But God you know how distracted we can be. You know that sometimes our searching is only lip service. You are aware that we tend to hold back in looking for you. We are ashamed that are seeking has not been with our entire being. Forgive us Lord, even as we turn once again and search for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims