What Is It You Want?

You know that longing you have, the one that nags at you or at times feels more like an ache. Do you ever wonder what is that?

What if you paid more attention to it and recognize the longing as something important? Jesus knows your desires. In fact, he created them in you and for you. Because he knows you well, He asks:

• “What is it you want?” John 1:37

• “What do you want me to do for you?” Matthew 20:32; Mark 10:36, 51

These are two fascinating questions! The answer may come quickly or maybe it takes you a while to really determine what you want. At first, the question or maybe it’s more the answer, may feel selfish. To want anything, can feel self-centered. Maybe so, but God is inviting you into discovering the deeper answer to these questions. 

In Adele Calhoun’s book, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, Practices That Transform Us she states, “Jesus wants us to recognize that hidden in our desperations and desires is an appetite for the Lord and Giver of Life. In fact, Jesus says, “You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.” (Matthew 5:6 The Message).“

Calhoun continues to say, “Learn from Jesus as he keeps company with people who want something. Watch him attend to the hole in their heart that is bigger than the galaxy. Many of his deepest interactions with people get at two things: (1) the true nature of people’s desires and (2) a spiritual practice that helps them make space for God in their lives.”

Over the last 18 months, I’ve asked this question almost daily. Some days I have clear needs for myself and others. Needs for my friend to be healed from cancer, how to handle the argument I witnessed between my daughter and husband, what do I do about work ….and the list goes on.

Other days I have been pleasantly surprised with the answer to that question. I can’t think of a thing. Sometimes, it’s as simple as sitting with God at that moment. It really is an intimate time to slow down, pause and reflect on being asked this question. I feel seen, heard and that I matter. God wants to know what’s on my mind and in my heart.

God cares about your longings and desires too! Take a few minutes to read about this week’s practice of grace. If you give this a try, comment on what you are discovering about you and God.

Practice of Grace: Ask yourself, “What do I want?”

This week in your dedicated time with God, first thing, ask yourself, “What do I want?” Be kind and patient with yourself. Keep asking the question and my guess you will learn something about yourself. Happy discovery!

Recommended Resource:

Periodically over this upcoming year, I’ll make recommendations for resources that can be helpful. I highly recommend Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, Practices That Transform Us by Adele Calhoun as a lifelong resource. It’s not a book you read from front to back, but more of a source that can help you dive deep into Practices of Grace, AKA Spiritual Disciplines.