by Kala Loptien

First Always

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“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them. And I will raise him up on the last day.”
John 6:44 English Standard Version

We’ve had some frost since I snapped this photo along our walking trail. On this particular fall day, the gravel trail underfoot, lined by prairie grasses suddenly met a small row of vibrant sunflowers. A stark contrast from the muted tones of the field, my eyes were drawn to the bright yellow color. Then I noticed, the pull was strong for another critter.

Bees love their nectar. It’s part of their nature. Flowers are an important part of the process. Their colors and scents create a magnetic pull. Jesus tells us in John that God is the one with the first action. I know this is a much-debated topic amongst believers; but I think we can all agree He acted first. He loved us. He chose us. He reconciled us…first.

Here’s where the bee/flower comparison breaks down. Flowers also need the bees for pollination. There’s a codependency that exists. God doesn’t need us; but as a dear Father who loves His children unconditionally, it is His desire for us to be with Him. We love because He loved us. This great, unrivaled, absolute truth changes hearts for good. Because of this, we realize we need Him. We want to be near Him, feel the peace that surpasses and hear the Words He has for us. Psalm 119 even says, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”

All of our good and perfect blessings come from above. How will we choose to use them? All praise, honor and glory are His — the Alpha and Omega, who is, was and will be.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado