Make Room 2019

Almost a year ago, Jonathan McReynolds released his Grammy Award nominated album Make Room. The entire album is a true work of art, inspired by the desire to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Creator of the universe. It's been a blessing to listen to and has allowed me to reflect on my life in a way that I haven't always done. However, of all the songs Jonathan has written throughout his career, the title track has shaken me to my core. The opening lyrics have forced me to think deeply about my life, my desires and decisions, along with my own personal relationship with God.

I find space for what I treasure I make time for what I want I choose my priorities and Jesus you're my number one

So I will make room for you I will prepare for two So you don't feel that you Can't live here, please live in me

A few years after my beloved grandmother passed away in 2013, I had a dream that we were in front of an opened locker. In the dream, her small frame stood in front of me as I began removing overfilled black garbage bags from that locker. From her lips flowed words in Haitian Creole, that were strikingly stern yet gentle, instructing me on what items I should keep and what items I should let go. I woke up from that dream and instantly thought "I need to declutter!" I was so hyped and on fire to begin right away. I truly believed that my physical clutter was the source of my discontentment and un-satisfaction. I stumbled across a documentary titled Minimalism a few months prior, so this dream was "my confirmation" that I needed to start throwing things away. Needless to say, my first few attempts were a complete fail.

Why is this so challenging? Is there something wrong with me? Why isn't this working? Those were the questions that repeatedly ran through my mind. Fortunately, on March 9th, 2018 those questions received an answer. My attempts to transform my physical surroundings were unsuccessful, because I tried to go at it alone and start from the outside. True change and transformation only comes from within. If the mind and heart are not transformed first, it will always be challenging to see your desired changes on the outside. I listened intently to every lyric of Jonathan's song multiple times. I looked through the Bible for verses that could help strengthen what I heard and I learned this: God isn't seeking perfection, but instead He wants a heart that truly desires to let him in. Papa has the ability to turn our mess and clutter into a masterpiece, but that can only occur if we let go of our pride and independence. God's unconditional love is pure and gentle and will never be forced on us. As He patiently waits for us to come to this understanding, he sends us reminders that He is for us and will never leave nor forsake us. A heart solely dependent on God is the access key that opens the door to total and complete transformation. On our own we can only do but so much, however, with God the possibilities are endless.

"If you want to go fast, go alone.

If you want to go far, go together."

African Proverb

This process has not always been a walk in the park. Believe me! Different life events and personal responsibilities can cause us to stop in our tracks and question ourselves along with God. Five days before my 30th birthday, my love's family experienced an incredible lost. One that, until this day, still has me in utter disbelief. I was riddled with pain and hurt because I was so certain that God would work a miracle. The past few months have been a haze and caused me to lie down in a sea of old habits. As I write this I am sitting across from my closet that is overflowing with clothes, art supplies, shoes, and other miscellaneous knick knacks. Don't even get me started on my pocket book and car trunk. Basically, I still have ways to go, but the bright side of all of this is the knowledge that I do not walk this journey alone. Neither do you! Take it one day at a time my friend. This is a daily process. A process that will grow you into the person that you were created to be. No matter where your journey takes you, you are NEVER alone. Pack lightly, but don't forget to make room for the one who's image you bear.

with joy,

Raquel

God is in the midst of her [His city], she will not be moved; God will help her when the morning dawns.

Psalm 46:5

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Jonathan McReynolds - Make Room (Live)