Empty Hands

Me: Lord, when You were tempted in the desert, were You very tempted?

Jesus: Patrick, I know the Father. Why would I ever want to be separated from Him? Nothing on this earth could make Me want that.

Me: So, in other words, no.

Jesus: Patrick, you ask because of the struggle in your own past with sin. But now, is there anything that you would take over the relationship we have?

Me: No, but that is something that many great spiritual men would have answered, and even they have fallen away.

Jesus: That is precisely why your tunic (intimacy: see this post) is so crucial to your armament. Much of the church has neglected intimacy with Me. Many have searched for it, some have found it, but many more have had an experience similar to yours. They become disheartened and jaded by the lack of hearing My voice.

Power from on high is no substitute for the intimacy you and I share. It is merely an addition to it. Ministering to a great multitude becomes a burden without intimacy with Me.

Me: Lord, why have they not been able to find it?

Jesus: Why didn't you find it for so long? Would you have treasured it as much if you had found it after asking Me the first time?

Me: I don't know. Maybe, but maybe not.

Jesus: My gift is free, available to all. But it is a gift that requires empty hands to receive it. Not many can empty their hands fully. But now is a time when people are recognizing the hunger that does not abate in their souls. They jump from one thing to another and find no comfort. Soon, they will become desperate for the truth, and will let go of everything to embrace Me. You are equipped to show them the way.

Me: I see, Lord.

What about the job offer I received? Should I accept it? Is this the thing You mentioned?

Jesus: Did it find you?

Me: Yes, but much sooner than you mentioned.

Jesus: Wait and see on that day. The offer is still very young, but it is my provision. Do you want something other than that job?

Me: Honestly, I don't want anything specifically, other than to be able to make some money, and this seems like a perfectly viable way to do it. Thank You, Lord.

Jesus: You are welcome. Be creative.

Me: Okay.