Back to Where It All Began

Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone. Genesis 35:3 (NIV)

When Jacob left his father and mother to go to his Uncle Laban’s home, he had an over night, under the stars stay at a place called Bethel. It was there that he dreamed of a ladder reaching to heaven and angels were descending and ascending the ladder. It was there that God spoke prophetic words and promises to him. It was the beginning of a new life for him. Nearly 20 years later, God directed Jacob to return to Bethel, and at that time his name was changed to Israel.

Yesterday, I had lunch with a friend in Nashville, Indiana. When our visit had ended I drove to a little resort that sat atop a small hill. The parking lot was empty as was the building in front of me. But as I ventured out of my car and walked around a bit I was deeply moved by the fact that I had returned to my own Bethel. I was at the very place where I had attended a Daughters of Promise event three years ago. I had entered the building unaware of the depths and truth of God’s love for me, empty in my walk with Him, equating my spirituality with rules and outward appearance, and unfamiliar with the preciousness of prayer and His Word. I had no idea that when I would leave the next day I would be taking my first baby steps on an incredible journey. My mind and heart raced to take in the full scope of the last three years.

I am not the same person I was three years ago. God has changed me from the inside out and continues that process on a daily basis. He is not finished with all He started in February of 2004. I have yet to fully realize the plans He has for me. But yesterday’s visit to my Bethel place assured me that He has not loosened His hold on me. I am safe and amazed!

Where is it God would have you revisit today…either in memory or in person? Where is it that God moved in your life in a powerful way and forever changed the course of your walk with Him? If you do not have a Bethel experience to revisit, ask God to give you one. Then get ready to watch Him move heaven and earth as He sets the stage for it!

Father, I look to You with expectation and follow You with abandon. Thank you for all You did at my Bethel and all You still plan to do. Amen.