You've heard it said; "Don't take it personal".

I admit there are circumstances where someone has said something unnecessary, hurting me or someone I love.  In those instances, it is definitely in our best interest to not take it personal.

But I like personal.  Hayden had pages of stickers with his name on them when he was younger.  He proudly stuck them on everything.

Hallie received an award for her DARE essay.  It makes her, and her dad and I proud to see her name written on that certificate.

Hallmark cards are great, but there's nothing like a hand-written sentiment.

I remember traveling on vacations as a child looking in souvenir stores.  Stores had the turning rack with personalized license plates and key chains.  I always wanted something with my name on it, but either they didn't have it or it was misspelled.  If my name wasn't spelled correctly, it wasn't meant for me.

Rylie received an end of year" personalized towel at school. It brought back to mind seeing towels in Jason's house with the names "Jason" and "Ann".  Someone was making an effort to say "This is just for YOU".

Of the million things that could be said about God, pretty high on the list is the fact that he is personal.  He created time and space the earth and everything in it.  He makes the ocean foam, the bird sing, and the heart beat, and he specifically cares for me.

I don't often shop there, but when I go to Pier 1, I usually see things there that make me think "that has my name all over it".  There are books that seem to fit my interests or needs.  There are people who share my taste and those who have had similar life experiences as mine.  But what I get from them isn't personal like God is personal.

He knows me.

From knowing the number of hairs on my head- to knowing my every thought; he knows me.  He knows my insecurities, my failures, and of my unfaithfulness to him at times....  He knows me.  And he still loves me.

Stop and watch that sunset.  It may have your name on it.

 

Delight in the bird that needed your rescue.  It may have been no accident.

Listen to that song on the radio.  It may be just for you.

Stay in that hug; the very arms of God may be around you.

Take it personal.