“But whoever loves God is known by God.” (1 Corinthians 8:3 NIV)
One of the great challenges of relocation (at least for me) is becoming unknown again. Deep relationship is a core value of mine and moving means digging up those roots and then repotting them in new soil. I understand the trauma it is to a houseplant, because I tend to wither a bit in the process as well. It generally takes me a year or so to acclimate to the new ground (church, community, culture).
Historically, key factors in a successful acclimation include socialization and volunteerism. Pandemic has put a huge kink in my go-to mechanisms and this season ‘at home’ has been particularly lonely. I realize that is true for most folks, but maybe magnified with a move only months before the world came to a stand-still.
Yesterday, I drove 200 miles round trip to spend the day with old friends. We spent seven hours together; appetizers at the house, a trip to a socially-distanced TJ Maxx, a drawn-out dinner, followed by lingering over coffee. By the time I got in the car to go home my soul was full again. It was good to be known. There was no need of explanation of my too-big back story. I didn’t have to piece together the mess the past few years because these dear ladies know enough and they love me still.
This morning, I woke up with the word ‘known’ rolling around in my mind. What a blessing it is to be known! And then I came across this text: “But whoever loves God is known by God.”
Did I read that right? If I love God, He knows me? It doesn’t matter how many times I dig up my houseplant and drag it across the country, He knows me! Pandemic or no pandemic – He knows me. The feeling I find with my friends is 100% available with my God right here in my home, in any home, no matter how many times we move.
“I am the Good Shepherd – I know My sheep and My sheep know Me.”
(John 10:14 NIV)
Lord, thank You for knowing us. Our stories get complicated, we may wither a bit in transplant, but You are with us each and every step of the way. What a blessing it is to be know and loved by the living God. We may be strangers in our community for a season, but never to You. Amen.