Growing up in Southern California, our family went to Disneyland quite often. An adventure to the “Happiest Place on Earth” appeared at the very top of every out-of-town guest’s “to do” list, and so we went. As years went by, the wonder of the “Magic Kingdom” gave way to common familiarity. As an adult, a trip to Disneyland represented little more than a long, tiring and costly day. Routinely I enthusiastically “sent” people off to the park, rather than accompany them.
One evening, while reading about the life of Walt Disney, the thought came to me, “If I received an invitation to take a private tour through Disneyland with its creator, I would gladly accept!” I imagined how incredible it would be to walk down Main Street and talk with the man whose vision had become reality.
Immediately I sensed God’s voice whisper to my heart. “This is the invitation I extend to you every time you open My Word…to walk with you through each passage, and speak to you about its meaning. If you accept My invitation, My Spirit and My Word will transform and empower you to successfully navigate your life’s journey as nothing else can.” Solemnly I realized that during my years in seminary, a season of intense study, examination and debate of God’s Word, I had allowed my growing familiarity with Scripture to replace the intimate engagement with the living power of the Word by his Holy Spirit. I had lost the dynamic expectation of hearing God’s voice to me within each verse.
I approach the Word of God differently now … quietly, humbly, with great anticipation of hearing the voice of the Lord and the expectation of understanding by His Spirit. With gratitude I have newly experienced the ongoing, tangible transformation of my heart and life.
As powerful as the Word of God is, it always requires a response from us. Lord, we thank you that you issue the invitation to join with each of us, and change us, every time we open your Word and welcome your Spirit. May we always accept your invitation with joy and expectation!
[Heb. 4:12a; John 1:1, 14; John 10:27; John 16:13a]
Maureen Broderson
Maureen is an ordained minister in the Foursquare Church and a Certified John Maxwell Team Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Along with her husband Lance, she serves as a member of the Servant’s Council at The Church on the Way, where they also provide pastoral leadership for the Grief Recovery Ministries.
