Back to basics

I love the way that God involves outcasts; lepers, prostitutes, blind, tax collectors, and smelly, dirty shepherds. Isn't it encouraging to know that God went to the effort of putting on a supernatural sound and light show for a bunch of social outcasts?

I love going to the theatre and studied performance drama at University. A few years ago I was having a tough time. I felt distant from God, like He didn't care. A friend of mine was given a vision for me that I carry with me to this day:

Picture this — a play / musical has been written, actors cast, score completed, sets built etc. It is opening night. The Royal box seats are occupied. It is a one off performance. It is hilarious, sad, beautiful, incredible. It is a performance for two; me and God. He has done it all just to see me smile, cry and be entertained.

Here God spoke my language. It made me feel exceptionally special in a time I felt like a bit of a shepherd. I know all the work that goes on behind the scenes of a play; from the first strokes of a writer's pen to the final curtain call. It was extravagant. I had never fully known this side of God. I always felt like I wasn't living up to His standards, like the harder I tried, the further I would fall. I always felt guilty for loving frivolous things like plays and films. It was incredible to think that God was ok with that. In fact He had put the love of words, emotions and stories into me. It made me think that perhaps God loves those things as well? He has, afterall, written the most important story in history.

God is an inclusive Father. When we feel unlovable and dirty, He is more than happy to reach down into the ditch and scoop us up. Remember the story of the prodigal son. The father didn't check his watch and shake his head; he RAN! Our God is a runner. He is full of grace and forgiveness if we choose to accept it. He is emotional like a lot of us women. He cries and laughs at the same time. He is excited to see us return to Him and sometimes that is so very difficult to believe. But it is true.

At Christmas look at the baby in the manger. Look at what God gave to the world. The sacrifice of Jesus was given as an extravagant gift by a phenomenally extravagant father God. If you ever doubt the love of God, look at the humble life, the humiliating death and miraculous resurrection of Jesus. Look at the beauty of nature or the humour in people. Look in the mirror and remember that there is a God in heaven whose love for you is eternal. A father God who speaks your language.