When the cream pitcher is almost as tall as the coffee carafe, I’m pleased- especially when the sugar looks so inviting. In the Finnish culture, children are introduced to coffee like this at an early age. Many years later, when I had an opportunity to drink coffe with milk in North Africa, I enjoyed it very much! Reading about the Psalmist approach to being in God’s presence catapulted me back to a very pleasant childhood memory. Since my father owned 40 acres of land, there were no visible neighbors on either side of our house. The Lord Jesus Christ captured my heart the summer of my 15th year. I later realized, to my delight, that I knew Him as my first love. We  would spend hours in sweet fellowship as I walked amongst the evergreen and birch trees. This was a sacred time for me- praying and meditating on His word. What a sanctuary of God’s presence that fully satiated my thirsty soul. We can bare our soul to those we trust and I found that He is fully trustworthy!

#transparencyinworship-Teresa

Psalm 26:1-8 (NLT)

1 Declare me innocent, O Lord,

    for I have acted with integrity;

    I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.

2 Put me on trial, Lord, and cross-examine me.

    Test my motives and my heart.

3 For I am always aware of your unfailing love,

    and I have lived according to your truth.

4 I do not spend time with liars

    or go along with hypocrites.

5 I hate the gatherings of those who do evil,

    and I refuse to join in with the wicked.

6 I wash my hands to declare my innocence.

    I come to your altar, O Lord,

7 singing a song of thanksgiving

    and telling of all your wonders.

8 I love your sanctuary, Lord,

    the place where your glorious presence dwells.