Let me start with a confession- I am not a ‘invite’ kind of person. I imagine my past has dictated this. Growing up in an abusive environment and feeling shame does not exactly give you the confidence to be an inviting person. Not into my home, not into my life. I have had a handful of close friends my entire life, and half of those have let me down.
When I write, I open the doors to my inner being- whether it is peace or turmoil. I become somewhat transparent, I will admit I still hold back, my own fears get in the way, I suppose. If people knew the whole truth, well, I do not know what to expect. For that reason, I maintain certain borders and boundaries in my writing. I have shared some pieces here and there, but to be honest, the deepest ones, I only share with the community of writers with whom I have no personal contact.
Therefore, that brings me back to the prompt word, invite. As I sit here and tell Jesus, “I have nothing here, Lord, YOU know me”, He reminds me of a special day 19 years ago. A cold December morning with snow on the ground, and a beautiful chorus of all the church members singing, “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me….” I recall the tears that left a trail down my cheeks, as they slowly fell from my eyes. I can close my eyes and feel the anxiety of my heart, and the thumping of every beat. I see myself go forward in that altar call and make the most important and substantial decision of my life.
Jesus called to me and invited me into a relationship with him. I followed up with my baptismal later that evening, and from that day on, my life truly has been a ministry for the Lord-not my writing, but my entire life. While I may not be a saint at being inviting, I know that I have shared His amazing glory with all I have met, and to each, and every soul, He extends the special and individual invite to come to Him.
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Authentic Truths 
I’m with you. Opening my heart in invitation is a scary, scary thing to be avoided at all costs. I’m finding that I have nearly as much trouble inviting as receiving—both require me to be vulnerable…needy even (and boy, do I hate that word)! Thank you for sharing your experience.
Coming to you from FMF #36.
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