For this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. // 1 John 1:6
There aren’t many things I would consider myself to have mastered in my twenty-four years of life, but I know one thing for sure: I am very good at being a middle child.
If any stereotypes come to mind, I’ve probably lived up to them. For example, in early childhood, I tasked myself with the seemingly dire job of constantly keeping the peace, ensuring fairness, and being completely independent so as to not rely on anyone.
And it worked . . . until it didn’t.
I spent the first few years of my adult life crippled by anxiety, tethered down by the weight of my own expectations which were sorely complemented by my reluctance to ask for help. I was lonely, burned out, attributed my spiritual desolation to being “just a season,” and wondered where the Lord was in all my perfectly laid-out plans.
It wasn’t until my friend, Beth Davis, invited me to take up a regular Holy Hour (and referred me to an amazing Catholic therapist) that I began to uncover the freedom the Lord has been offering me all along.
I didn’t need to keep the peace with Peace Himself. I didn’t need to ensure justice with Justice Himself. I didn’t need to figure everything out on my own; I needed to follow Him.
Through this dedicated time with Him, week after week, I began to surrender my preconceived notions and to grow in my desire to follow His will for my life. His love wasn’t asking me to perform or earn my place—He simply invited me into an abundant life, guided by His holy will.
Because that’s what love does: It heals. It sets free. It restores us to life.
This freedom is for you, too, dear friend. Visit Him in Adoration today.
Love heals. It sets free. It restores us to life. // Kelsey DassanceClick to tweet
Kelsey Dassance is a Michigan native and a strong advocate for iced coffee all-year round. She’s tried almost every sport at some point in her life, but prefers climbing mountains over anything else. She’s a big fan of sunshine, friendship, and Pope Saint John Paul II who encourages her to pursue great things without fear. She is a contributing author to Blessed Conversations: Dwell. Find out more about her here.
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