Category: Grace

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Finding Strength in the Father’s Arms

From the end of the earth, I will cry to You, when my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. -Psalm 61: 2 (a prayer of king David to God 👑🕯❤)

When your heart is anxious or overwhelmed, where do you go to find strength and security?

Lately my daughters have developed a natural gravitation toward their father.

In some ways, it’s like they are leaving their once tightly held need for my tender, maternal arms and now they are branching out to find strength and assurance in the strong, masculine presence of their father.

I know their young hearts are finding boldness, safety, and identity in their dad’s love and discipline.

Seeing Eden with her father today reminded me of a psalm of David.

David knew his power was limited but God’s power wasn’t. He knew where to go to find unstoppable victory, strength, wisdom and goodness. And so, because of his confidence in God, he was emboldened to go forth and conquer.

Because he was trusting in a good, majestic source of power beyond himself, he had courage to rule, worship, teach and wage war with enemies that were naturally stronger than him and whom had the rest of the nation cowering in fear.

There is a deep place where we can know God as our Father. There is a sacred place where we can cry from our spirits and breathe the same intimate name by which Jesus called God, “Abba…Daddy…”

Because of the intimacy David had with God, he accomplished feats that have become timeless in their fame.

David slaid a massive giant because of his confidence in God.

God can take care of your giant too.

Are you dealing with an impossible financial situation right now?

Are you heartbroken over a relationship?

Is there a disease that has waged war against your body or the body of a loved one?

No matter what you are facing, your Father is bigger….

There is security and incomparable strength in his loving arms.

May your close connection with your heavenly Father be a source of saving power and hope to your loved ones and those around you, in the same way that David was a beacon of hope and strength to Israel.

Seeing my two daughters with my husband also reminded me of the relationship I had with my father as a girl. He made me feel safe, secure, loved and protected because of the power of his strength, his unflinching discipline and expectations, his fierce loyalty to family above all else and his steadfast diligence in providing for his family.

It gladdens my heart seeing Eden and Elena discover something of God and their own feminine souls through their transforming and blossoming relationship with their dad. 🤍🕊👑😚💐

Something deep is happening underneath the surface. Something I caught a heavenly whiff of as I snapped these shots and meditated on what it could mean for my daughters 🙏🏽☺…

“…casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].” -1 Peter 5:7 AMP

These pictures of Eden and Stephen were captured during our family beach walk 🌊💙🌱

Years ago, I attended Charis Bible college and the school put on a spectacular musical about the life of king David. One of the scores is called, Whom Shall, I fear? In it, a young David boldly declares “the Lord, He is my strength, He is the stronghold of my life…whom shall I fear?” I want to share this scene with you and I pray your heart sings along in faith with the lyrics because God is the same yesterday, today and forevermore and He is your heavenly Father. To listen, click here. I do not own any rights to the music or play.

If you enjoyed this devotional, check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love (An Initiation into Healing Intimacy)

“A delightful book that reflects the praises from a heart that desires to abide closely with our Heavenly Father. Written in a style that summons us to experience a journey of deeper intimacy with a loving God. Ashley covers the foundation of the Christian faith that brings encouragement and assurance of God’s promises when faced with life’s challenges. Embracing our uniqueness and the safety of transparency before our Maker who cares about the most intricate details of our life. Yes, an invitation indeed from the One and only who can fill what are heart’s ache for.” — Jocelyn Reyna, Entrepreneur

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Falling in Love with Jesus

Have you ever thought about this, the Bible begins with a marriage relationship in a beautiful garden between Adam and Eve, and it ends with a divine marriage feast in Heaven between Christ and the church?

This is a glimmering preview into a new book idea I’ve had in my heart for several years now. This book is about preparing the hearts of God’s people for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7). It is a prayerful and worshipful journey of mine to create words that make others thirsty for Jesus and to fall in love with Him. I often pray that the Holy Spirit would use me to woo the Bride of Christ back to Jesus. Just as the Spirit of God helped John the Baptist turn the hearts of the children back to their fathers, may He rise up within my heart to help the Bride of Christ return to her First Love. May you be blessed by this sneak peek:

-This book is artistically based off the Biblical writings of: Songs of Songs, Isaiah 54, Esther, Eden, Ezekiel 16, and finally the Marriage between Jesus and the Church in Revelation.

Eden scene:

“How come the King makes it so I am always attended?” I asked my attending angel.

“Because you are his royal wife.”

“We are not married yet.”

“In your carnal mind time still exists.” He said without condemnation or rudeness, “You forget that the Word says the Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world.  Before Adam sinned in this Paradise, Christ had already become the sin offering.” (Revelation 13:8)

I (Ariel, name meaning, Jerusalem) remembered that God symbolically showed Adam and Eve the promise of his eternal redemption through Christ when He slaid an animal to cover them with its skin. He covered their shame. He paid for their sin. He kept them warm…all with that one act to show them divine grace, mercy and sacrificial love. But it came at an ugly cost…the cost of innocent blood. (Genesis 3:21)

“It doesn’t seem like death could have ever happened in such a beautiful place as this…” I whispered thoughtfully.

The garden was vibrant with flowers and fruit and vegetables bright like polychromatic gems. Sparkling mist rose from the foundations of Eden like clouds of cream. The etherealness of it reminded me of the slow dancing clouds that descend like steaming, gauzy sheets of vapor over the amazon rainforests.

The rivers of Eden could be heard everywhere. The sound of moving water pleasantly rushed around my ears as if I were canoeing on streams with the clearest crystal waters fresher than artic rivers. One river had flecks of gold chaffing so plentiful that the gold clustered smoothly on river stones and when aureate sunlight graced the waters it gleamed so brilliantly it was like light on mirrors, refracting the brightest yellow.

I knelt by this heavenly river, feeling the soft, moist turf cushioning my knees. As I cupped this water in my hand, fine gold settled to the bottom of my palms like light glitter floating in water and it covered my skin completely like a layer of metallic lotion after the water had dripped from my hands. (Genesis 2:10-14)

All of the animals glowed like moonlight. They seemed to be infused with an otherworldly presence…as if divinity had been sewed into the delicate weaving ladder of their DNA. They were full of life. Holy life. They were full of peace. They never harmed one another. They lived in harmony with the earth and all of creation around them. Even through them, I saw Him. (Romans 8:20-23, Isaiah 11:6-9)

He was inescapable…

Even when He went off to judge, to reign, to deliver, to conquer and to rule as the mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords …He was always still with me. (Matthew 28:20, 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20)

In my own heart, I tasted the fragrance of his pure presence. His loving faithfulness was transcendent. Not even death could overpower or diminish it. (2 Corinthians 2:15)

It was like I was in a dream. Or a dream of a dream. But at the same time, no fantasy or dream, could come close to matching the beauty of Paradise. Undefiled, unadulterated…Eden. The highest hopes of man paled in comparison to the dreams of God.

In some ways, I felt like Esther, living within the gilded fortress and walls of the king’s magnificent palace, and his subsequent beautiful mansions speckling around his main palace. Within this main gate was his royal court made of pearl floors almost as clear as glass with thick curvy pillars crested and belted with rose gold that flamed into an amber color when torchlight came near.

All of this was encircled with water and delightful gardens rich with life, fruit, exotic animals, jewels, and every good delight known to man. Between two of these gardens was the king’s lush vineyard where grapes more aromatic than flowers grew in iridescent rows of emerald leafy vines….

The [Holy] Spirit and the bride (the church, believers) say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take and drink the water of life without cost. -Revelation 22:17 AMP

For previous books on the amazing love of Jesus, check out, Visions of Celestial Love and Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. 

"Ashley Thompson’s book, Visions of Celestial Love is just that, a visionary work of epic proportions. It is glimpses into a loving and remarkable relationship with the creator of the universe. You are invited to Dive into stories of love and compassion, healing and provision, loss and recovery, profound grace and faith. Ashley draws us in with her descriptive prose and unique style of writing. There are so many stories to relate to in this book and I’m sure you will find your own story among the many that are told here. So, find your favorite spot, your favorite beverage, and curl up with “Visions of Celestial Love”!" -Amazon Reviewer
"Romantic Rendezvous is a beautiful invitation into intimacy with Jesus! Ashley has done a masterful job of creating stories that depict the heart of the Father. I have truly been blessed by this book! As I read each story, I felt the closeness of Jesus and had continual reminders of how deep the Fathers love is for me. From the very first chapter, I felt the flame of my heart be rekindled with God's goodness and love. This book is a must read!" -Amazon Reviewer

Worship Him

He’s so beautiful, isn’t He? Look at Him, the desire of the nations. The world trembles for his presence again. (I don’t own any rights to this beautiful music or video):

Beauty – Bethel Music – YouTube

xoxo

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Weightless Peace and Childlike Faith

There’s a peaceful weightlessness about children that Jesus calls us to live in:💖

“…unless you become like a child, you shall not enter the kingdom of Heaven…” Matthew 18:2

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” -Matthew 19:14

Healthy children raised with love, security, and wisdom are:

-Whimsical.

-Have no stresses or worries.

-See the world for all its color and light. They have an untouched innocence that is beautiful and is the closest living reflection of Adam and Eve in paradise before the Fall.

-Trust with all their hearts.

-Feel loved.

-Are able to give love.

Because they feel and know they are taken care of.

We are children of God. We alone have the perfect, benevolent Father. We have a Fathe who is gracious, all-knowing, holy, good, and whose definition is love in its truest and purest form. We have a Father who never runs out of resources, in fact He is the richest, most powerful King and He generously bestows undeserved blessings through the finished work of the cross.

Recently Jesus has been encouraging me to rest. Rest is one of the deepest forms of faith because it requires us to have the humility of a child by casting all our cares, fears, and adult worries on the Lord. “Cast your cares on me because I care for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

It also requires us to come to the end of our own strength and instead depend upon the strength of the Lord (Zechariah 4:6). It calls for us to lay down our wisdom and understanding for his greater wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 3:5).

It’s not always easy to become like a child when you’ve been an adult for long enough.

I find that popular culture promotes a self-sufficient, independent, get-it-done attitude. This is the opposite of the Gospel. This is the opposite of the Father-child relationship Jesus paints for us in scripture or the shepherd to sheep relationship the Bible often uses as an allegory of our own relationship with God.

Jesus himself did nothing but “what he saw his Father doing,” and he proclaimed that the works/miracles he did was really “the father doing the works.” (John 14:10) Jesus lived in dependence upon God as “Abba.” As I think Of Jesus’s own earthly walk, I am coming to grips with how rooted faith must be in God as Father. There is something so pure and life-giving when we call upon God as Father and trust him with the simplicity that we see children give their fathers.

I don’t know where you are today, but I pray you hear Jesus speaking to you through this. He is such a good Bishop of our souls. He is the Restorer of our souls. He is the binder of the brokenhearted. He is the “God of all comfort.” (2 Corinthians 1:3)

In his presence is fullness of joy. (Psalm 16:11)

In this season, I’m needing to lean more into grace like a well-loved child. As a wife, mother of littles, teacher, student, and author, I wear many hats…but non eof these things, no matter how great a blessing they are define me. My ultimate identity is a loved daughter of God. And recently Jesus has had to remind me of this.

Let’s lean in together…there is more than enough room in the Father’s arms.

Prayer 🙏

Dear Jesus, I thank you for your son or daughter reading this right now. I pray for everyone who will read this. I pray you will lead us into your shalom for you are the Prince of peace. I pray the shalom of God will make us whole. I pray for divine strength and rest to enter our bodies by your Holy Spirit. I ask that you restore whatever is broken in our lives whether it’s physical, mental, emotional, relational, circumstantial, etc. I pray for you to “lead us beside still waters” and for us to be humble enough to allow you to lead us (Psalm 23:2-3). May we always remember that we are well-beloved, and may we continually experience fuller and fuller measures of your heavenly love until we are overflowing and learn how to drink of your bounty without reservation. For you cause the sons of men to drink from your river of delights (Psalm 36:8). We choose to rest in You, sweet Savior.

I have some exciting news! My 1st children’s book is now available for purchase on amazon! This has been such a dream come true and I know Father God is leading me to write more stories for kids that will help connect them to their heavenly Daddy. You can check it out by clicking here.

Story synopsis 💐:

Four copper coins… four vastly different siblings… one task.

Aline is finally given the chance she’s been looking for, to take a trip down her mountain house into the quaint village of Chestnut. Her mother tasks her with the great responsibility of making a non-stop journey into town to purchase items for a delicious supper while keeping track of her younger siblings.

The journey is filled with delightful distractions, forested woods, and flowering mountains that easily catch the children’s attention.

Will Aline be able to resist the urge to disobey her mother and take a few fun detours? Will she be able to keep her playfully mischievous siblings in line and safely keep the coins?

Join these siblings on a whimsical journey of fun, competition, and games while they learn the beautiful truth that obedience brings good things. Ephesians 6:1-2

-Until next time, may you experience the abundant peace and love of your Heavenly Father in deeper and sweeter measures. 

Ashley

xoxo

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Spiritual Father Figure

~Written in 2010 when I was single and (impatiently) waiting on God for a spouse. This encouraging testimony is included in my book, Visions of Celestial Love (A Rediscovery of God’s Grace and Love).

My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you! –Galatians 4:19-20

            Dear God I love this. I love how Paul considered the church of Galatians to be his child. He loved them affectionally and passionately. In pain did he carry and bear them in his heart. So deep was his love for them that he wrote a whole book of the Bible inspired by them. With every word he wrote and with every prayer he earnestly knocked on your heavenly door to share his zealous love for your children God. Such a righteous God-fearing leader did you bless them with and have blessed me with.

            I cannot help but think of my own pastor when I read these two verses. He’s always glad to see me when I walk through the church doors. On several occasions he’s come up to me and said, “You’re such a good girl. God has a great plan for your life,” and “I appreciate your faithfulness it really touched my heart,” and “You’ve got a sweet heart there are many people who love you at this church.”

             I’m reminded of that Halloween night God where I decided for “once” I was going to disobey you. I was angry with you God. I cannot deny it. Forgive me. I was making decisions from a wounded aching heart. I had asked you for something, something my heart so desired for. Many times I had asked you to bring him to me Lord. To bring me my godly husband. I’ve never had a boyfriend, and every guy that I was ever interested in, I turned down for his lack of commitment to You. Little was I thinking of my commitment to Christ, and that before any man He is my lover, my husband. The night I had cried on the couch when you told to me “wait.” Wait was not what I wanted to hear. Too many nights of tears and too many comments from others such as “you’re such a goody goody,” from secular friends finally created a hole in the strong wall of my faithfulness.

            My sisters were going to a staff party and to their surprise I asked to join them. We went to my sister’s friends house. I found a comfortable seat in the backyard and sat quietly. I felt uneasy and out of place. As the night progressed a drunk guy went around offering people drinks. Never would I have gotten up and fetched a drink for myself…my spirit wouldn’t allow it. This merry guy high in spirits with short wavy dark hair approached me and held out a glass of some alcoholic drink. Immediately my eldest sister protested “Not her! She’s misses innocent.” Inside the Holy Spirit told me “no” but I was tired of listening to Him. My hand flinched as my body and spirit waged war against one another. Within seconds Omar, my sister’s Jewish and Egyptian friend whom I was attracted to, ran directly in front of me and held out his hands in a way that reminded me of Christ on the cross. “Not this one dude. She’s too young.” The drunken guy insisted but Omar didn’t budge “Not this one.” he said again. Finally after a few moments of debating the drunken guy gave in. As soon as he left Omar walked away too.

            I pondered what happened in my heart and later I wrote about it. You kept me pure God by using Omar, an unbeliever, to protect me. I never was attracted to the drink but I was attracted to Omar and in the end you refused me both. The drink left in the drunken guys arms and Omar left with his own two feet. I remember telling this event to Pastor one night excluding my feelings for Omar and just like Paul he was perplexed about me. “Young lady don’t you ever go to a party like that again.” He said firmly. I told him “I won’t.” “Thank God that young man was there to stop you.” I nodded my head. Pastor then told me that sometimes when a good shepherd saw that one of his sheep was straying on dangerous ground the shepherd would take his staff and break one of the sheep’s legs and then carry the animal back to safety on his shoulders. “You see the sheep can only see so far. It would have never known if maybe a pack of wolves was there on the other side of the hill.” I wondered why he told me this.

            He looked at me with serious blue eyes “If I ever see you straying on dangerous ground…I’m not lying, I would break your leg. Better your leg get broken than for you to be in the company of wolves.” Some would find my Pastor’s words threatening or inappropriate but I found them sweet. I thank God that I have a spiritual father who is zealous to have “Christ formed in me.”

To check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love, click here. May your soul be blessed by the reality of God’s love for you!

“Ashley presents us with a true cornucopia of modern psalms, personal testimonies, and short stories. She has set out to reveal and unravel some of the most complex heart issues mankind faces in our quest of understanding what true intimacy with God really looks like. Prepare to have your soul massaged and worked on as you read Visions of Celestial Love.” — Jeremy Minard, Servant King Apparel

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Royal Righteousness to Replace Shame

This testimony is shared in the revised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. To read the original version, click here.

But YOU will be called the priests of the LORD; they will speak of you as ministers of our God; you will feed on the wealth of nations, and you will boast in their riches. In place of your shame, you will have a double portion; in place of disgrace, they will rejoice over their share. So they will possess double in their land, and eternal joy will be theirs. -Isaiah 61:6-7 (emphasis mine)

I have found that shame was the number one tool the devil used to keep me in bondage throughout my early Christian walk. During one of my first visits to Charis Bible College, the Father gave me a vision of myself. One of the worship leaders began keying what sounded like a spontaneous worship song on the stage piano. She created melodic and beautiful music on the keys.

Within seconds I saw a vision of myself kneeling on a still, watery floor. The water was so calm it appeared like glass. I was robed in a dark shirt and pants. Jesus began walking toward me to embrace me. Instead of receiving his love, I turned my face away and held out my hands as if pushing the air to discourage him from seeing me.

“No, no!” I cried. “Stay away from me.”

 I closed my eyes tightly until he “left.” I didn’t think of myself as worthy enough to look at him. Being a gentleman, he walked away (although he never truly left). When I opened my eyes again and didn’t see him. I began to feel lonely and I regretted pushing him away.

Before I could cry because of my poor decision, my black clothes began to transform into a beautiful pink dress with twinkling lights that moved. After I saw that I was more prettily donned, I felt worthier and my heart began to desire to see Jesus.

As if the water below me heard the silent language of my heart, it began to rise in large drops. It was like reverse rain. Large drops of water solidified and formed a spiral staircase that had the appearance of precious stone. The stairway led up to the heavens, beyond the starry dome ceiling. As I gazed up, I saw billions upon billions of stars. They twinkled and shimmered like silver, blue, green, gold and purple glitter refracting light. Star dust painted the sky like aurora lights and cosmic clouds.

Unconsciously, I knew the stairway would lead me to God. It was like Jacob’s ladder in a way. I began to ascend the stairs but before I could reach the top, Jesus reappeared. This time, I didn’t turn him away, because he had dealt with my shame by clothing me in a gown of royal righteousness.

I also believe he appeared before I could reach the top because he wanted to show me that I didn’t have to labor for intimacy. He didn’t want me to. He wanted to show me that he was always wanting connection with me.

And that he was the only way to the Father, who lived up the stairs…

In the same way, I pray Jesus shows you a picture of yourself clothed with royal righteousness. You are a child of God. Thus, you are royalty. You don’t ever have to earn your way to God because Jesus paid the ultimate price for the veil to be torn that separated you from God. The work is already finished. You are perfectly loved by God. Your body has been made into the temple of the Holy Spirit. Christ, the Lord lives in your heart by faith. All your sins have been washed away. You have no stains. You are a new creation in Christ and you have been given a righteous nature.

“Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault.” -Colossians 1:22

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are you dealing with any level of shame in your life? If yes, why?
  2. Are you currently struggling with faith righteousness? In what ways have you personally allowed Jesus to show you that you are the righteousness of God through him (not by your works but his finished work)? “For it is by graceyou have been saved,through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works,so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9 NIV) “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile.” (Romans 3:22 NIV) Look up 2 Corinthians 5:21.
  3. Would you describe yourself as more God-reliant or self-reliant?

“This book is simply wonderful. Deliciously descriptive, it nourishes the soul with fresh revelation of God’s love for humanity. This collection of short stories may challenge your thinking about what true intimacy looks like, while making your heart yearn to daily experience the Perfect Love described within its pages. It invites you into a world created by Love Himself, where there’s no mistaking that His love is not only unconditional and never-failing, but also deeply personal and precious to Him. Get ready to experience the purpose, pleasure, and power of real love!” -Amazon Reviewer

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Love is the Greatest

~I wrote this scene in the revised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul, to honor the woman who has loved me like a spiritual mother. She is a living display of God’s unconditional love and grace in the lives of others. And I truly believe the words that I wrote in this scene were inspired and reflect a small sample of God’s love and delight in her. Enjoy!

Chapter 12

“For who is greater? He who is reclining (at meat), or he who is ministering? Is it not he who is reclining (at meat)? And I — I am in your midst as he who is ministering.” —Luke 22:27 YLT

Angel began saying grace. “Heavenly Father, thank you for this meal that we are about to receive. We pray that it will bring nourishment to our bodies. God, we ask that as we eat and converse that our speech will be pleasing to you. Let it be like Christ is in the midst of us, edifying us all with his presence, truth, and love. We love you Father, and we thank you for all of our blessings. I ask that you especially bless this young man who came so quickly to our aid this morning and offered to fix our pipes for free. Multiply the goodness that he has shown us back to him a hundred-fold. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

“Amen,” Jesus said, and I echoed the same.

Angel lifted a spoonful of fish to her mouth.

I broke off a piece of bread and nibbled on it.

“You remember Daniel?” Jesus asked Angel.

“Daniel…the prophet?” Angel asked slowly between bites.

“Yes, him.”

“I remember certain things about him, yes,” she chuckled nervously. “This isn’t a Bible quiz or anything like that is it?”

“Oh no. No quiz.”

Angel swallowed. “Okay, good. What about Daniel?”

“He was called greatly beloved of God by the angel who was carrying a message for him.”[i]

Angel nodded and took up another bite of fish. Her facial expression lifted with pleasure as the taste of fish touched her palate.

“You were right,” she said and sucked wet fish sauce off her fingers. “The sumac adds something special to the boiled fish. It’s perfect.”

“I’m glad you like it,” Jesus said, and then cleared his throat before continuing on. “The angel told him that God heard him the first time he asked for the message, even though it was delayed in coming.”

Once again, Angel nodded.

“Angel,” Jesus said, turning toward her intently, “your prayers are so valued by our Father that even before you ask, he answers them. He anticipates the desires of your heart and he moves to act on your behalf.”

Angel stopped chewing and her eyes locked on Jesus’ face.

Jesus didn’t delay but continued unabashed, “Your heart is the home of his Son. You are his temple, his daughter. When you ask for something, you have the power to persuade his heart, simply because of his great love for you and because your desires are pure. You have served him well by washing the feet of his children. As I said earlier, you are pretty famous in the Father’s house.”

Angel stiffened and I couldn’t read her face because her back was turned to me. Before long, I noticed the quivering of her shoulders, and soon I heard a soft cry. Her glasses fogged up and she removed them from the bridge of her nose, which was lightly speckled with cinnamon brown freckles. She shakily wiped at her lenses with the edge of her robe.

“I would ask you how you know these things. Are you a prophet?”

“No,” Jesus said with an endearing smile on his face. “You know that’s not true. You knew who I was when you let me in your house. Don’t give in to the doubts that block out your child-like faith.”

Angel’s hands stilled. She let her glasses lay in her lap before wiping away the tears gathering in her chestnut brown eyes.

“You know me really well,” Jesus said, and took hold of one of her hands. Their bronze complexions almost matched, except her skin was more darkly hued. He folded his hand over hers and stroked the surface of her hand with his thumb. Angel covered her mouth with her free hand to stifle her cries.

I was beginning to think Jesus had this effect on everyone.

After several minutes of trying to compose herself, Angel managed a low mutter. “Lord?” She looked him up and down before her eyes shifted over his face. “Is it really you?”

“Yes,” Jesus said, his smile bright. “Earlier, you prayed that I would be in your midst…I Am.”[ii]

Angel took his hand up and kissed his fingers reverently before pushing her chair back. It made a scraping noise. She moved to bow at his feet. Surprisingly he let her and with one hand he made a smooth stroke of her hair. She pressed her forehead to the cold sand-tan tile and her hot tears fell.

Jesus’ visage shone down upon her and then he looked upon me, “She is one of those who wears an invisible crown on her head. For when I was hungry she fed me, when I was thirsty she gave me something to drink, when I was a stranger she invited me in, when I needed clothes she clothed me, when I was sick she looked after me, and when I was in prison she visited me.[iii] She did all of this by loving on others in my name and trusting me to be her strength.”  

Angel’s clothing altered and I saw that she was in a pure white dress fit for a queenly bride. The multiple skirts of her gown had whimsical layers. Each layer had a unique glory of its own—almost as if they represented different seasons in her walk with Jesus. I tried to count the airy folds, but they were too many. Tiny flakes of melted white gold glimmered in her gown. A sash, the gossamer color of golden beryl, was draped across her right shoulder and curved left to her waist. It was beatific.

An equal colorful crown rested on her nutmeg brown hair. She had a single gold chain tied around her neck, which hung like a huge tear drop. Inside the tear drop was a sapphire blue gem, the reflective color of the heavens.

From within her belly, I saw what appeared like rivers of water coursing in circles. It was living water with life in itself. It was building in speed and mass. Prompted and inspired by the Holy Spirit within her, Angel began to sing in tongues—it was the most beautiful song. I felt goosebumps break out on my legs and arms as I realized that she was worshipping in Spirit and in truth. As her heavenly language poured forth from her lips, the blue gemstone necklace began to radiate and I saw the rivers of Spirit water begin to flow from her body.

After clasping Jesus’ ankles and kissing his feet, she bent her head back to look up at him.

He cupped her face and kissed her forehead, “Arise, my beloved, my dove, my fair one.”[iv] He released her face, took hold of her by the elbows, and helped her to her feet. She retrieved her specks from the chair and sat down.

When she moved to brush off an airy piece of chair fabric lint from her glasses, I noticed she was blind to the spiritual frock she was clothed in. I wondered why it was masked from her vision, but seen by me?

I wanted her to know how spotlessly adorned she really was, but when I caught sight of Jesus I knew that my questions could wait.

“I’ve sat at this kitchen table with you many times, Angel, and I’ve enjoyed every second that you’ve sought my face. Not one minute has ever gone to waste or been unnoticed.”

“I always knew you were with me, even if I couldn’t sense it.”

Or see it, I thought.

“Truly, you have given my heart much pleasure and you’ve ministered to me many times through your surrender and purity.”

The chai began to boil and then foam in the pot on the stove. Tiny milky bronze bubbles started to rise, permeating the air with sweet and spicy aroma. I stood and hastily made my way to the stove to turn off the burner before the tea boiled over.

I retrieved two café au lait mugs made of smooth green ceramic before pouring Angel and Jesus a cup.

My hands began trembling as I made my way back to the table. I set their tea down beside them, grateful that I hadn’t spilled it.

There was a holy weight in the air. My knees felt a little heavy as I went back in the heart of the kitchen to get myself a cup.

Angel was beaming and she couldn’t even see it.

I managed to pour myself some of the fragrant tea without spilling. When I neared my chair, I almost buckled into it. I let my head rest in my hand and chose to enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit, who was filling the room.

It felt like a river was lapping at my feet, but when I glanced down, all I saw was the tile flooring.

My thoughts drifted like autumn leaves to the scriptures in First Kings that spoke of the dedication of the temple. I remembered that the cloud of God’s presence filled the chambers, so the priests couldn’t even stand to minister, for the glory of the Lord diffused the very air.[v]

Indeed, Angel was truly a priest unto God, living out a seemingly plain life that was drenched with charitable deeds. She was known by her goodness and generosity to many.

“Do you smell that? The smoke?” Jesus asked her.

Angel glanced up, as did I, to find that we were all inside a cloud. She took a long inhale and slowly released air.

She nodded, clearly liking the aroma.

“It’s all your good deeds. These have risen to the Father as a holy, sweet incense. It is more pleasing to him than you understand.” Jesus’ warm eyes glimmered. “Angel, you have tapped into a tender part of our Father’s heart. You have discovered that love is the most excellent way.[vi]

“Indeed, while some have sought the miraculous and searched for signs, you have sought the most valuable thing—the love of God. And in doing so, you have really sought God, for he is love.[vii] Truly, where miracles and wonders cannot change the hearts of men, take Israel in the desert for example, consistent godly love can.

“Love never fails. It has the power to do what miracles cannot. It transforms the heart. It opens up the hearts of men to see me and my Father as we are. Therefore, it softens and enriches the soils of people’s hearts to receive grace and truth by faith…and thus live. Your love has opened the hearts of many to receive the seed of my Word.

“Love is the purest catalyst for miracles and the reason behind every miracle I ever performed. Your lifestyle of good deeds points back to the Father’s heart and many cannot deny he exists, because of your example.

“And while miracles are important, and many of my brothers have disregarded the precious gift of healing that I died for, you have found the way that fulfills all the law and the prophets.

“What you have done in Noelani’s life and the life of many of my people will never go unrewarded. You have surely been a priest by serving my people and reflecting me to them.”

Overcome now, Angel buried her face in her hands. She sobbed and laughed simultaneously.

[i] Daniel 10:11

[ii] John 18:6

[iii] Matthew 25:35-36

[iv] Song of Solomon 2:10

[v] 1 Kings 8:10–12

[vi] 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:1-13

[vii] 1 John 4:7

To check out the original version of, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul, click here.

“This book is filled with amazing love stories. These stories bring hope to the deepest part of your heart and soul. The writer keeps you engaged so much that it’s as if you are there experiencing the emotions and feelings of the characters. Your heart will race. Your heart will flutter. You’ll feel the presence of the king. You’ll find yourself falling more and more in love with Jesus as you realize and experience the unending love he has for you.

If you’re struggling with your relationship with Jesus, this book is for you.

If you are grounded and solid in your relation with Jesus, this book is for you.

If you want to know him … it’s for you. If you are seeking love ….start here.” –Pastor Irene Torres, Marriage and Family pastor at Our Father’s House church. Irene carries a powerful testimony of family restoration and transformation. Her passion is to help families build strong and healthy relationships that prosper in unity. Irene carries a gifting to help others see God’s glory inside themselves so they too can rise up and live to bring God glory. Irene has a Bachelors in Christian Leadership and a Masters in Governmental Development.

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A Biblical Poem for Children

Can You Find a Safe Place for My Seed?

By: Ashley Thompson

Can you find a safe place for my seed?

I’ve heard it comes with all I need.

(Matthew 13:1-23)

A warm cup of hot coco and a coat.

Some jewelry and a boat. My favorite rainbow and the sky.

A thousand kisses and a lullaby.

This seed comes with good things from heaven that never say goodbye.

 (2 Peter 1:2-3)

A wise man gave it to me, He pulled it from some weeds.

He tucked it in my pocket and said it was all I would ever need.

With a kiss that left my cheek tingling with warmth, He tipped his hat and buttoned his petite coat.

(Matthew 13:37, 2 Corinthians 9:10)

Snow dusted his tall hat and lashes; his white hair was alight with flashes.

His eyes were like fire burning bright, in Him I saw everlasting light.

(Revelation 1:14)

He was unlike any man I had ever seen.

He was like God in the flesh and there was nothing mean.

(John 1:14)

He spoke the words that breathed life into this seed.

He spoke the words that were all I would ever need.

(John 6:63)

The seed in my pocket was hot like the sun. It glowed in every tunnel and had darkness on the run. 

I tried to grow it on books, on tables and desks, it didn’t like these places, it wanted a heart of flesh.

I tried to put it in pots of dirt, but it wanted to be inside my heart and warm me like a hearth.

(James 1:17, Jeremiah 31:33)

I lifted the seed that sparkled like a star, it seemed to come from some place that was very far.

It drew my attention to the heavens above, it wanted to shower down for it was a gift of love. 

I opened my mouth with bated breath, I swallowed the seed, and it grew in my heart of flesh. It took root in my soul and its truth gave me the very best.

(Ezekiel 36:26)

Inside my heart the seed showed me a Man.

A Man who loved me before time began.

Within this Man is life at its grandest.

As I walk with Him, I become robed in heaven’s finest.

(John 3:16, John 14,26, John 10:10)

Now this seed is living and active.

Within me Jesus Christ is protected.

Together we walk through life completely connected.

(Hebrews 4:12)

He is in me, and my life is hidden in Him.

This is the mystery of the Gospel.

This is a love that always wins.

(Colossians 3:2-3, 1 Corinthians 13:8)

Dear parents,

As a parent, I know how important it is for us to plant the Word of God in our children’s hearts. There is hardly anything dearer in life than personally knowing Jesus Christ in truth and rightly dividing the Word. Jesus is the Word made flesh and He said man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (John 1:14, Matthew 4:4).

This small poetic story was inspired by the parable of the Sower and the seed told by Jesus in the Gospels. Jesus is called the “seed of Abraham” in Galatians 3:16.

Jesus compares the power and functioning of God’s kingdom in our lives to how well we plant and grow God’s Word in our hearts by faith (Romans 1:16, James, 1:21, 1 Corinthians 1:18). When we consider that Jesus (Salvation) is the Word of God, it becomes easy to understand why knowing God’s precious Word is life to us. Not only is knowledge of the written word important to our children, but personal relationship with Jesus (the Word made flesh) is important. In this short rhyming children’s tale, I tried to combine both aspects of relationship with God’s Word.

My greatest prayer for my children and yours is that they will know the One who is life, salvation, wisdom from God, Healer, Prince of Peace, and the Way personally for the rest of their lives. I pray our children will walk with Jesus and know Him as He is. There is no safer or more blessed place for our children to be, than in the warm arms of Jesus Christ.

“The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” -Jesus in John 6:63 (NLT)

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Peace of Heart for The Holidays

~A reflection about the incredible forgiveness of God and the peace He has in his heart toward us. These thoughts were originally inspired during a family vacation where I stayed in a beautiful, big beach house.

“And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.” -Hebrews 8:12

I’ve enjoyed living in this beach house.

I like how the clouds cover the sky and earth like a dewy mist. Moisture and coolness dampens the earth with watery life. The sweet, jubilant song of morning birds pierces the air like whistles, wind pipes and stringed music.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always like mountainous clouds. I’ve always liked clouds that washed the sky like ocean currents rippling with the light patterns of the sun. I’ve always enjoyed gray clouds that bring the earthy and refreshing scent of rain…they promise abundance and the peaceful tunes of falling water droplets.

I thought about the Holy Spirit and how He was as a cloud during the heat of the day during Israel’s travels (Exodus 13:21). They lived in a supernatural environment. An environment where the temperature was regulated by God. They were not scorched away during the day. They were taken care of as, “the apple of His eyes,” (Deuteronomy 32: 10).

He kept them warm. He was a brilliant, warm, welcoming, powerful fire by night, taking away the frigid cold. He was like a personal heater in each of their homes/tents, in the midst of the desert (where temperatures range from extreme hot to extreme cold, Israel never suffered with these extremities).

The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. -Isaiah 60:19

I thought about how God originally put man(kind) in a garden, in a wholesome paradise filled with pure pleasures, godly intimacy with Himself and each other, a safe environment where animals were not abused, nor people abused. Peace, joy, and godly love filled the environment and created the perfect atmosphere of heaven on earth.

He’s always tried to get us back to that place through us coming willingly to Him, trusting Him and following Him. He wants to give us this in Jesus, whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light. Let us come to Jesus and learn of Him (for He is our Lord) and follow our Savior through life (for He is our protection and salvation).

Photo credit: unknown

This is the rest of Hebrews 4.

This Holy Spirit also forget all our sins and remembers them no more (Hebrews 8:12).

In His heart, there is the perfect environment of love. In His heart, there is total peace about us. He has no grudges, no undercurrent of sinful disappointment, there is nothing in His heart that would hinder His healing affection toward us (Isaiah 54:9).

There is nothing in His heart against us (Isaiah 54:10).

His love flows freely toward you, like a rushing stream down a mountain without hindering rocks.

He comes for you full of mercy and everything good.

Be loved.

“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” -Luke 2:14

This Christmas season, may you find yourself in the midst of the incredible peace of God. May you receive His favor and know that He is pleased with you by faith. May your heart be at rest as you rest in the bosom of your Lord.

May you remember, that Jesus didn’t come to condemn you, but to save you because of the great love of Father God for you (John 3:16-17). May you always remember the true “reason for the season.” The birth of Jesus is the greatest message of peace and reconciliation that the world will ever hear. Jesus came to reconcile us to God and He gave to us the ministry of reconciliation that we may be like Him in inviting others into this harmonious relationship with Father.

I also pray that our hearts will be as His, full of purifying mercy, full of freely given forgiveness, so that we may internally live in the divine peace He does. His heart is free from grudges, He has no bitterness. He has no sinful anger (there is a “righteous anger” that is good and godly to have, but I’m not talking about this).

There is such beauty and wonder inside of Him. May He lean over the post of the highest heaven and see our hearts as clear, crystal waters. May He see His reflection and image in our souls because we have chosen to forgive, live and love like He does.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. “-2 Corinthian 5:17-21

~For more writing like this, check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love:

“Come, all you are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.” – Isaiah 55:1-2 NIV

Are you ready to taste of the sweet delicacies of God in a deeply reviving and personal way? For those who want to drink, for those who want to eat and be refreshed and renewed, Visions of Celestial Love is a feast between you and the King of Heaven, who loves you more than anyone else. He invites you to dine on wholesome, good, savory food and delicious, zesty, fruitful drink. He awaits you with a sparkle in His eye. He is ready for your company. He delights to have you as a guest.

“Eat, friends, and drink; drink your fill of love.” – Song of Songs 5:1 NIV

“Ashley presents us with a true cornucopia of modern psalms, personal testimonies, and short stories. She has set out to reveal and unravel some of the most complex heart issues mankind faces in our quest of understanding what true intimacy with God really looks like. Prepare to have your soul massaged and worked on as you read Visions of Celestial Love.” — Jeremy Minard, Servant King Apparel

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The Great Kindness of God

I usually don’t do this, but God has been so incredibly kind to me 💖.

In a short time God has provided for me:

1. A plane ticket to Ireland with no stops for a great price! (My dream vacation)

2. A delicious Thanksgiving meal and groceries delivered by two beautiful women who love Jesus and my family.

3. A brand new tablet (A friend was praying and felt like God asked him to buy me a tablet, complete with a cover and keyboard (I’m sure it was $400+)

4. Two expensive bar stools (dark wooden with white cushions)

5. A big dresser, polished white

6. A matching night stand

7. I found an old love note from Bible college that someone wrote to me on behalf of Jesus. It was 4 long pages of pure poetry describing God’s compassionate love and truth toward me. It left me feeling so loved and seen and cared for.

My old worship pastor in LB once texted me, “I think God spoils you Ashley.” When I showed my husband her text he chuckled and said, “He does. You get almost everything you ask God for in prayer.”

As I look back on my life….I see the kindness of God everywhere. I see a great, loving Father and His fingerprints of tender care, mercy, generosity and favor all over my life. I see His radiant smile, I see His fierce loyalty, faithfulness and undying love.

Just last month, I was probably given $1,000 from God through the hands of saints who hear Him and worship Him enough to follow Him (without me ever voicing a need for anything by asking people. I only asked God)

Sometimes as I drive to work (my dream job), I am amazed again by the sheer beauty of the ocean view I have as I drive down the mountain. I live in a place I prayed for. ❤

The love of God is sweet like melted sugar on my heart’s tongue. His love is the richest wine. His grace is the sweetest oxygen. His companionship the highest joy. I can’t imagine life without such a sweet, holy, faithful, powerful, kind-hearted Father. He has won my heart forever. I love His character. I love who He is. I love the way He loves. I often commune with Him in the secret place of my heart…and Who I find is the greatest Lover of all time, the greatest Father who will ever exist. He is such a good God! Such a personable God who wants a personal relationship with all of us.

I promise you, you will never meet anyone who loves you more than God. And He will show you His love. Once you meet Him and enter into a relationship with Him…He will be faithful to you always. Even if you let go…He will hold on.

2 I have seen you in your sanctuary

and gazed upon your power and glory.

3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself;

how I praise you!

4 I will praise you as long as I live,

lifting up my hands to you in prayer.

5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast.

I will praise you with songs of joy.

6 I lie awake thinking of you,

meditating on you through the night.

7 Because you are my helper,

I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.

-Psalm 63:: 2-7 ❤

Jesus has opened up heaven for us. He has opened up a way for us to enter into a loving relationship with our heavenly Father where we are free from guilt, shame and condemnation. The fountains of mercy and kindness that pour from God’s throne room are endless. His grace-gifts are given freely because of His great love for us and because of what Jesus has done for us.

I will praise You forever beautiful King and High Priest of Heaven! You are the One my soul loves! 🥰

xoxo

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Coffee House Ministry

~This snippet is taken from my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul:

“What makes your beloved better than any other?
What is it about him…?” – Jerusalem Maiden, Brides-to-Be

—Song of Songs 5:9b TPT

Vaporous spicy aromas licked the air with heat. Warm ginger mingled with clove. Pine kissed ground coffee scents. Chai danced with vanilla. And nutmeg blended with buttery pear creating a bath of incense. A group of teenagers sat on a plush, ruby red sofa drinking piquant drinks from decorative mugs. They shared headphones and watched videos on their laptops, which were resting on their legs. An old couple sharing a booth, sat across from one another talking. The wife reached a pale, trembling hand over her husband’s tan, leathery one. His opaque eyes misted as he looked upon her, and I felt his ripe love for her like hot honey in my chest. Some young adults were seated around a wooden oval table doing homework. I guessed they were all a part of a study group. Still there were others scattered about. I passed by a small girl with pigtails happily eating a lemon tart dessert.

When Jesus walked in, I expected him to stand on a table and evangelize. Instead, he walked right up to the counter to greet a comely barista. Her thick, brown hair was weaved in the back and hung like glossy rope with tawny blonde highlights. She had clear green eyes like olive oil and lips the color of crushed raspberries.

“Good evening, sir. How may I help you?” she asked perfunctorily.

She looked frazzled and her day must have been long, for although she looked at Jesus, she didn’t see him. He was just another customer. It was almost as if her pretty eyes were shuttered by the repetitive routine of work. She glanced at me and asked the same question before her eyes fell to the cash register, ready to proceed with her normal protocol.

I ordered an apple spice tea with sweet buttercream drizzle. “Good choice,” she said without feeling.

Jesus remained silent for a few seconds. His eyes scanned her as she stared at the cash register waiting for him to order next. She glanced up at him when he said nothing.

“What would you recommend, Diane?” he asked, with deeply compassionate eyes and a warm smile. I knew he asked that question only to rouse her.

Her eyes quickened slightly, and her shoulders perked up. “That depends. How are you feeling?”

Jesus answered with a bright smile, “I’m feeling like I could use something with a kick of zest in it.”

The corners of Diane’s lips slightly lifted at his charming and welcoming visage. “We have pineapple tea with ginger root. That usually provides a nice kick.”

“That sounds good, but I’d like to hear other options.”

Diane began to read off to Jesus a list of other teas and coffees that were energy boosters. She went through the entire list before he asked, “Which ones are your favorites? For those nights where you need a booster?”

Diane chortled softly. “It would be the spiked cider or the whiskey Irish creamed coffee,” she said with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. “But if you’re looking for a nonalcoholic solution, I’d recommend the hot chocolate supreme. It has a few shots of caffeine.”

By this time my tea was finished, and I picked up my order before finding a nearby table. I knew Jesus was ministering to Diane.

“What if I didn’t want anything with alcohol or caffeine in it?” Jesus asked, his demeanor still warm.

“Then the pineapple ginger is your best bet, but you can choose from these other teas,” she said fingering a few, her eyes fixed on the list. “Like I said it really just depends on how you feel.”

“How do you feel?” Jesus asked her.

His question surprised her, and I noted a flicker of shock cross her face before she masked it with her customary employee visage.

“I feel like I could use a booster myself,” she said politely.

“I know a booster that you can’t get in a tea or a coffee or anything material but it always works. And I’d like to give it to you if you’re willing.”

Her eyebrows lifted. “It always works?”

Jesus gave a gentle laugh. “It hasn’t failed yet. Millions of people who’ve had this would tell you so, from centuries ago to modern day, from all around the world to right in this city.”

“How much is it?”

“It’s completely free.”

Diane’s eyebrows creased slightly, and she tilted her head trying to discern Jesus. Nothing but waves of love came off him. She glimpsed around. Everyone had been served, and her fellow co-worker had gone into the kitchen.

“What is it?” she asked, partly suspicious.

“Not what, but who.”

Misunderstanding his intent, Diane stated, “I have a boyfriend.”

Jesus nodded. “I know you do, and I’m not coming onto you if that’s what you’re thinking…at least not in that way.”

Diane pressed her lips together. “Then…?”

“It’s Jesus.”

Diane rolled her eyes. “Please, sir, I’ve had enough of religious jargon. And I’m too old to believe or be humored by fairy tales.”

“I would disagree,” Jesus said kindly.

“What would you like to drink?” Diane asked, cutting him off.

“Humor me for a moment, Diane.”

Diane gave an audible sigh and then shrugged. She stared him up and down again before her demeanor softened. “Okay,” she said cautiously.

“I don’t doubt that you’ve had enough of religious jargon. I’ve had enough of it myself. But I do question whether or not you’re being truthful about fairy tales.”

Diane arched an eyebrow at him and crossed her arms.

Jesus continued, “Think of it. Most movies are composed of fairy tales, even the action ones. There’s some level of magic in them—of superhuman strength, of beauty, of endurance, of ideal romance, of triumph and adventure beyond common life. Most songs consist of a yearning for superhuman love. Many best-selling books are littered with these noble ideas that are often fleeting in human experience, yet they are an ever-constant source of ache and desire in the human heart.”

Diane’s lips untightened and her arms slowly uncrossed.

Jesus expounded, “If those aren’t fairy tales, then I don’t know what is. Every human heart longs to experience something more than the dreariness of life. That’s why people stuff themselves with fancies, be it food, relationships, temporary thrills like theme parks, drugs, movies, vacations, promotions, possessions, whatever it be. The soul of man knows there’s something more that it was created for, and so most people numb this yearning by stuffing it with entertainment. The only problem is,” he paused, and his eyes deepened; “Is that they’re trying to fill an eternal ache with temporary things. Worldly things can never mask heavenly desire. Many have tried, and all of them have failed. Do you not find yourself entertained by these things, Diane?”

When Diane didn’t answer, Jesus replied, “I know you do.” His tone was thick with bowls of compassion that rose like sweet fragrance.

“Well, religious people entertain themselves with rules and criticizing others. At least ‘secular’ people seek happiness over hate,” Diane retorted. Although her facial expression was defiant, her voice was strained, and I caught a glimpse of sorrow in her eyes before she drew it back.

Jesus reached out to Diane with such compassion that I felt a lump rise to my throat.

“Religious people do. You’re right. And I’m sorry for everyone that has hurt you. Truly, I am. Many people are so busy making religion their god that they don’t allow God in their religion. Turns out religion is much more easily manageable than God. Those people you speak of are afraid. They may not even know it, but they are. Pride is a form of fear. They seek control, perfection, a way to escape chaos. They are desperate to measure up for fear of rejection, failure, exposure, whatever the fear is. They have so many layers of behavior modifications and thought processes piled on top of their fear that they can’t even detect it. They look to somehow redeem themselves. But there is only one Redeemer. There is only one love that casts out all fear and those who have that are not religious. That’s what I want to offer you tonight.”

Jesus paused and stared deeply into her eyes. “Diane, the happiness that people seek is Jesus. Eternal happiness can be found in nothing else.”

Diane’s eyes watered and she closed them. Her breath shook a little as she tried to compose herself, “You speak as if you know him. No Christian has ever spoken to me like that.”

Jesus reached out and gently touched her arm. She collapsed into tears at his warm touch, and I knew she was feeling his love for the first time. It was as if the pores of her skin opened up to his liquid love. Diane covered her face with her hands and tried hard not to weep so loudly.

Customers noticed and passed curious glances. Some seemed concerned that whoever was touching her had somehow hurt her, but their thoughts quickly turned when he lifted his hand and caressed the side of her face. Diane grabbed and then pressed his hand against her cheek with hers. Her teeth clenched as she sobbed.

“Do you feel that?” Jesus asked, his voice rough with emotion.

“It’s like fire in my heart,” she sobbed, choking on tears. Her skin became damp with sweat from crying so hard and from the heat of his love. Her smooth skin reddened until her nose was like plumb sauce. Her tears, snot, and saliva got on Jesus’ hand, but it didn’t bother him. He was smiling. He was happy and content…

~To read the full story, click here.

For centuries, the female heart has burned with desire for the lasting pleasure of unchanging love. In the course of time, civilizations have risen and fallen, yet the longing for tangible intimacy has never faded. Millions of lyrics have been written to the passionate tune of this fluid yearning.

Unfortunately, few people find the lasting love they’ve longed for, even as children. Life, education, and societal pressures transform what was once a tangible hope into a mythical fairy tale. Industries have reaped unlimited monetary gain from the erosion of this hope. Billions of girls grow up to become women who have long since tossed their dreams of true love in the trash bin of cynicism. Countless others have buried their ache of unmet desire under the disappointment of failed relationships and hopelessness.

Despite most women’s best attempts, this starved craving remains alive, like a stimulating aroma. This ethereal hope goes back to the first relationship, in a place of being so “seen” and “lovingly known” that “she” was naked and unashamed.

This novella was not written to add salt to the gaping wound of unsatisfied need. It was written to satisfy the need completely. Let Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul introduce you to a lasting relationship with Transcendent Love, where reality becomes sweeter than your dreams.