My early morning routine has not changed in 20+ years.

I trek to the kitchen in the wee early hours of the morning, make myself a super hot stokin’ cup of coffee, light the candle on the end of the counter, curl up in my favorite overstuffed chair, grab my bible and settle in for some Jesus time.

This is my favorite time of the day.

Me and Jesus.

Years ago I read somewhere that spending one hour with the Lord in prayer refreshed the soul like newly fallen snow.

As a mid-western raised gal I know what the first snow feels, smells and sounds like. 

The world is peacefully quiet. A soft hush muffles normal everyday sounds. And there’s a refreshment that the world has been blanketed in a new beginning.

For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, you’re missing something really special and I recommend you head north until you find some snow time!

But I digress.

The point I’m trying to make is that in these few hours each morning, I’m able to sit with the Lord and enjoy, be refreshed, renewed all the while there’s a hush whispered over my spirit.

When the world is quiet I am able to focus my prayers on those I love – my husband, my kids, extended family and friends. Sometimes my prayers lean towards filling my journal with ‘Thank you’s’ for the good things and the bad. And then still there are other times when I pull on my head phones, crank up my favorite worship music and sing my heart out to God. And still, there are the ugly times. When I’m crying, angry, frustrated and down-right mad at the world for something that’s happening in my life that bring tears.

All of it is ok.

God understands. He gets me.

I don’t surprise Him.

I don’t make God mad nor do I disappoint Him in anyway when I share my heart.

I am loved.

I can rest in His truth.

Do you remember the song by Avalon called, “Light A Candle?” If not, no worries, I’ve linked a copy of the song below.

Normally this song is played during the holiday season to remind each of us to step outside of ourselves during the holiday hustle and bustle to stop a moment and pray for everyone God calls to mind.

The first time I heard this song, I wanted to go out and buy a case of candles and send one to every person in my life with the lyrics typed on an index card as a reminder that while we were miles apart or maybe broken hearts keep us at bay, I still loved that person. 

I wanted them to know I loved them and was praying for them.

Truth be told, I wanted God to show up in our lives. To make His presence real to me. I wanted God to heal what was broken, ask for forgiveness and to let the other person know, I’d also offer forgiveness.

God is good at healing and forgiveness.

So my early morning tradition remains.

Up waaayyyy too early. Hot coffee cup tucked between my palms as I slowly greet the Lord and thank Him for my life. These moments are dear to my heart because I don’t want to start my day without God.

I’ve done it a time or two or twenty… and it ain’t pretty. Just sayin’…

I need time with God so I can hear His voice, feel His presence and know that no matter happens that day, God is good, He is with me and He will never leave my side.

I encourage to do the same.

Set aside a special part of you day. Make it a routine. Pretty soon, an hour will turn into days, then months and then POOF! Years will have flown by and your time with God will be change your life like the first fresh new fallen snow.

When you do you can rest assured that I lit a candle and prayed for you.

May your hearts be refreshed  as you spend with the Lord.

Until next time,

Blessings and best wishes,