Lay It Down

Some days listening to Christian radio starts journeys I never set out on.  The music, the advertisements for serving others and the messages of hope and love are unbelievable.  I keep something to write with scribble almost illegible notes to myself to review later. I've jotted down scripture, songs, organizations and inspiring words. I keep a small Bible in the car and sometimes I  have to read the verse I heard and those surrounding before I exit the car.  I am amazed by this time where just by being intentional and spending my drive time letting others share the word lights me on fire.

What's my fire right now?  A song by Sanctus Real called Lay It Down.  As I listened to the words it became the idea I need to study and share.  
Listen: Lay It Down by Sanctus Real
Lyrics link - KLove Radio

I'm reminded of a Bible Study Live event I participated in during an online Bible study through Proverbs 31 Ministry. They told us to draw a cross on a sheet of paper and write out what we need to ask forgiveness for or to  write “Leaving it at the foot of the cross.” Wondering what types of things to let go of or confess? Worldly things, things that separate us from accepting the love and grace Jesus gave to us. Things we are forgiven for but we refuse to quit carrying the burden of.

I remember this exercise. I don't remember what I wrote. I remember creating a hill of words of my brokenness at the bottom of the cross, praying and tearing it up.  I remember now that that visual, physical exercise led me to remember to lay it down regularly and accept the redemption offered. So, today I did it on a note card.

Life is busy, but there are so many different ways to take the time for prayer, praise, and worship. What happens when you exchange your burdens for peace? You find thanks in the mundane. You smile while your back hurts and your hands are dirty. You find something you can share, a testimony, a relationship so good you want to pour love onto others. 

Lay It Down:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” -1 John 1:9 NIV.

Share the Love:
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. -Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV).
Can you Lay It Down? Let me know how taking a few minutes with this song and the exercise helped you leave it at the cross.