This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. – 1 John 5:14-15

One of the many things I enjoy about our new home is its unique architecture. The particular circumstances of its age, the various additions and renovations over the years, the fact that it was two apartments for some time, as well as changes in terms of codes and standards all conspire to guarantee that this space is absolutely one-of-a-kind.

From where I am sitting at one end of the kitchen counter I can see all the way through to Saint Patrick Street at the front and Saint Andrew through the adjacent lots at the back.

Max and I have just returned from our walk and it is quiet, not just throughout the house but the town too. Quiet and meditative. It is good to get my thoughts and my heart and my purposes into rhythm. And I feel anchored in this space. It is a peaceful house and as I sit here writing, I read my Bible “verse of the day” (Luke 12:6-7), and I am reminded that it is not just this house where I feel anchored but in the irrepressible love and purposes of God:

Jesus – “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” – Luke 12:6-7

Not just that I am not forgotten and should not be afraid, but also the people Rebekah and I love and sometimes find ourselves afraid for are of such value to God. At first it was just Andrew; then a couple of years later it was Naomi – they are both anchored in the irrepressible love and purposes of God. Then we added their spouses, Craig and Alicia. And now there are four amazing grandchildren as well (“GrandAngels” as our friend Faye says).

As I sit in this beautiful space feeling anchored and blessed and at peace I have this feeling – this sense of urging from the Spirit – that I should trust that the people I love are held so tenderly in God’s care.

This is not so much let go and let God as it is resting in the deep knowledge of love. Not wishful thinking but this is the confidence we have in approaching God:

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. – 1 John 5:14-15

And so we ease into this new day. May God give all of us such blessed assurance and deep confidence – DEREK