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REFLECTIONS
Can God find us?

Louise Rousseau

Genesis 3:9

It’s easy to get caught up in the business of life: work, family, friends, church activities and chores of all kinds. Sometimes, I get so engrossed in what I’m doing, I leave God out of my plans and pursuits. Eventually, I run into trouble, and I want His help. He promised He’d be there for me, didn’t He? I diligently ask Him to help me solve my problems. Yet, no matter how hard I pray, I find no peace. God seems far away. My prayers fall at my feet, like dead birds. Confused and distressed, I ask myself, “How can I find God? Where is He when I need Him?”

A better question to ask is, “Can God find me?” Like Adam and Eve, who hid after eating the forbidden fruit, I often seek shelter from God’s eyes in the brambles of my own priorities. I’m too focused on my selfish desires to surrender to His will, too independent and self-righteous to stand naked before Him. I want a quick fix to my problems, not a complete overhaul of my dreams and plans.

God is always with me, as He promised. But His graciousness is such that He does not force Himself on me. Just as He called to Adam and Eve, He also calls to me: “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9). Once I’m ready to come out and peel off the fig leaf, He can meet me in my time of trouble.

Reflections is a column of brief reflections on Scripture passages. This one is by Louise Rousseau of Ross Road Community Church in Abbotsford, B.C. Freelance submissions for Reflections (200-250 words in length) are welcome.

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Last modified April 2, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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