Stay Put

by Sue Donaldson

Four weeks ago, I suggested you ask God for your theme verse for 2009. Did you come up with one? (Did you forget to ask? There’s still time – it’s only February.)

Lisa Leonard—of jewelry making fame—recently featured a new design for January: a simple square pendant in which you choose your “word for the year.”

Here’s an excerpt:

“Courage. Dream. Inspire. Breathe. Family. Play. Peace. What will your ‘word of the year’ be?” Check out details at: lisaleonardonline.com

One I came across stood apart from all the others – here it is

“ABIDE”

Most likely a Christian ordered it, don’t you think? It’s not a word an unbeliever bandies about most days. I loved it for its beauty, simplicity, and strong reminder~ I want to abide in Jesus, day-in-and-day-out, not just this year.

The comprehensive passage is John 15. Jesus uses the word abide 9 times in 11 verses (John 15:1-11) –which includes vines and branches and fruit and things that burn—I’ll have my choice of theme verses.

Abide means to “remain” – “dwell” – “stay.” I’ll add “stay put.” And, 4 times he says, “Abide in Me.” It doesn’t help to just stay put – it’s where I place my stay.

I know this passage speaks to my responsibility to stay where I need to be. But, today I’m smiling and grinning and a little teary-eyed just thinking about staying close to my Lord. He’s invited me (and you, too, of course.) And that makes me feel great.

How do you abide?

How do you know you’re in that place, close to His heart?

What brings you there and keeps you there?

What’s your favorite part about it?

Is there a song or phrase that helps you “stay put” in Jesus?

Why don’t you share it—we could all use the reminders (and, I just may need another Lisa Leonard necklace!)

Father,

Thank you for inviting us to abide in You. There’s no other place I’d rather be. Love, Sue