Reshma is a Habitat homeowner in New Delhi, India. This Advent, she shared her story, and the feelings of love and joy that she feels this season. Read the full reflection below.
I grew up frequenting various places of worship, assuming they all taught the same truth. However, when I was in my early 40s, I first heard the gospel of Christ. A person who visited the hospital where my husband had been admitted with a serious chest infection told me how much Jesus loved me. I was convicted and spontaneously surrendered my life to Him. Subsequently, I joined a church and attended weekly Bible studies. It was through my church that I first heard about Habitat for Humanity.
Since then, I have walked with the Lord Jesus. I give thanks that He submitted to His Father’s will even when that meant death on the cross.
I have relied deeply on my faith in recent years. In 2009, I lost my husband, and two years later, my daughter died as well. But through all the sorrow, I have known the deep and abiding love of Jesus. I know that like a shepherd who knows his sheep, Jesus knows my name. He knows my heart and brings me great comfort.
Despite the great losses in my life, I have also known great joy. My heavenly Father meets both my spiritual and physical needs, including the provision of a decent place to live — thanks to Habitat for Humanity. I am living a life of abundance through Jesus. I feel safe and confident in my home even though my life is nothing like I expected it to be.
During this time of Advent, a period of spiritual preparation that culminates in Christmas, we are invited to ponder the great love that is the Father’s gift to us in Jesus. This season is a time when I focus deeply on how God sought me out to show me how much He loves me. So during this season, I will seek to give back to others as a way of sharing the rich love of Jesus I have so freely received.
All glory to God!
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for the birth of Your Son Who came to save us and Who offers us a life of abundance. I am one among the multitudes, yet You called me to follow You. Thank You for the indescribable gift of Your amazing love. Please show me ways in which I can encourage others to choose life in Jesus. Amen.
