Painting Revelation Blog
Essence
by Debby Topliff on Apr 24, 09 • 1 comment • Share This
Hidden in Christ
Today is my birthday. For the last couple of weeks I’ve struggled with the idea of being 60. Before now, it seemed so old. Yet here I am, still me. One of the biggest challenges in life is discovering, knowing, owning your true identity. This was the temptation Jesus wrestled with in the wilderness. At his baptism by John in the Jordan River, the heavens opened up, a dove descended, and a voice said, “You are my son. I’m pleased with you.” But immediately after that the Holy Spirit drove him into the wilderness where the enemy kept asking, “If you are the son of God…..” The insinuation was: maybe you’re not.
A wise counselor that I visit from time to time used EMDR (eye movement therapy) to help me integrate who I knew with my mind I was, with who I felt I was. It’s hard to explain, but after the session I drew this image of my true self. Ever since that session I’ve been much more grounded, much more integrated. My mind and my heart are one. I know who I am: I am crucified with Christ. It is no longer Debby (whether 10 or 35 or 60) who lives, but Jesus Christ lives in me. And the life I now live in this earthly, aging body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.
Comments
Jul 16, 09
Grand Rapids MI
Dear Debby,
7/16/09 A belated Hoppy Birthday to you! I just gave myself the time and delight of going to your blog and have been reading backward from your July 12 entry. I found myself resonating with your meditations on the birds, squirrels, growing things and scripture and how they speak of knowing who we are and where we are in God’s world and kingdom. Then I came to this wonderful birthday entry and had to stop to respond and let you know how much your thoughts and insights are ministering hope, grace, and peace to me.
A friend once spent time at a Brudderhof and returned with their addition to “Happy Birthday To You.” I hope you can hear me singing it to you:
We’re so glad God made you,
We’re so glad God made you,
We’re SOOO glad God made you,
And sent you to us!
Continue to grow and flourish, dear one.
Susan
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