Just Receive

The other day I was talking with my mother and she said something that has stuck with me. She was telling me about some of the broken people she encounters and how they carry so much sickness and negativity in their lives. She said "I wish they would just let Jesus love them."

Profound statement. That is the answer to every issue in our lives, isn't it? We are the ones that make this Christian walk so hard sometimes. It's not about what we do or how we perform, or worse, how badly we mess up. It's all been covered in one act on a cross by a loving Savior. What else does He need to prove His love to us? We're the ones that complicate what we simply need to just receive.

As those words have continued rolling around in my mind, it brought to mind a beautiful song that I just can't hear enough by Nicole Binion, called "Receive." Lyrics posted below the video.

We just need to let Jesus love us. He stands ready and waiting for us to allow Him. Once we really comprehend and receive His love for us, it wipes away all the striving, guilt and self-condemnation we get so good at putting on ourselves when we feel we don't measure up. What a freedom it is to know the reality of God's grace.

Empty handed I'm standing
After striving so long
Unexpected I'm finding
I don't have to be strong
Your grace is amazing
It's taken me so long to learn
Your love has never been
Something I have to earn


Lifted up on your shoulders
I'm a child once more
From your higher perspective
Showing me what's in store
My reality's changing
I'm seeing my life through your eyes
And all that you've given
Is taking my heart by surprise

So with arms wide open
The love I've been hoping to find
Has finally arrived
And the sky can't contain it
The earth can't explain it
The depth of my heart is alive

Lord, I receive your love
Here in this moment
Your mercy flows like rain
On my heart dry and broken
I receive your love today
It's hard to believe
All I must do is receive
Sweet mystery, all I must do is receive