My only New Year's resolution for 2012 is to know and love Jesus more at the end of the year than I did at the beginning. At the end of February, I will finish reading the Bible in one year. I have found things I never noticed before, but the reality is, I've read it, not really spent time reflecting on what I've read. So, I've decided when I finish the Read the Bible in a Year Challenge, I'm going to focus on the gospels so I can focus only on Jesus.
To help me in my quest, I have a visual reminder. For the last 17 years I've worn a Claddagh ring on my right hand. The claddagh is a traditional Irish ring made up of a crown, a heart, and two hands.
The claddagh can be worn on the right hand with the heart facing out if the person's heart is still available. If the person becomes involved in a relationship, she will turn the ring so the heart faces toward her. Some people will use the claddagh as a wedding ring, and naturally they will wear it on their left hand with the heart facing toward them. This is a sign of true commitment.
On January 1, I moved my claddagh from my right hand to my left with the heart facing toward me to indicate the commitment I've made to do what it takes to be more in love with Jesus on December 31, 2012, than I've ever been in my life.
I'm sure some people may think it's crazy or creepy, but I think it makes me more accountable. If Jesus is my true love, then I should be showing it every day. When I put my ring on in the morning, I think of Him because I know why I'm putting it on my left hand. When I take it off at night, I'm reminded again of why the ring is there. And, anytime I look down and catch a glimpse of it, I'm reminded to think about who He is and the commitment I've made.
Jesus wants my friendship. I don't have to be the smartest, prettiest, or most popular girl to have His attention. He is completely loyal to me. I may prove unfaithful and turn from Him, but He's always waiting for me to return. He loves me despite everything I've ever done or will ever do. He is the only one who will always be a true friend. His loyalty will never falter. He is the only one I am absolutely sure will always love me. Jesus, His love never fails me, and His love won't fail you.
Another beautiful post! What a wonderful thing to do to remember Jesus’s love and friendship. My sister use to wear a ring for Jesus on her wedding finger. She got a lot of questions from it because people thought she was married, yet she was so young. Some people found it very strange, where others thought more about it and found it to be very special. I think it’s a very special thing to do and something all of us believers should do, especially us girls. I’ve been reading a book called, Lady in Waiting by Jackie Kendall and Debby Jones. It’s a REALLY good book about being solidly in love with Jesus, making him an important part of your life, and waiting for Mr. Right. You might be interested in it :-) Here is a link to it, if you want to check it out.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/Lady-Waiting-Becoming-While-Expanded/dp/0768423104
I also love that song by Brandon Heath.
Have a blessed week.
God’s care,
~Ryan