Dear Hannah,
I have been considering Olivia and her behaviour as a brand new baby Christian without a Christian family to support her. She will wither and die if we don's show Jesus in our actions and reactions.
“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Pet. 3:13-17). Bearing in mind the absolute infancy of Olivia I am praying she can be gently restored otherwise the enemy may devour her. If she is too much for you at this time I am happy to disciple her.
I'm sure when Jesus got his 12 motley disciples together there was frequent friction but He continued to love them like His own. His love changed them and is continuing to change the world. I believe we can never love too much. I'm all for change and I think the way forward is to die to self, put Jesus first and love Him. If I get wounds and scars on the way they will be for his glory. I'm an overcomer because He's the victor.
People are wounded sinners. Jesus’ heart continuously gravitates towards sinners and sufferers to overcome their sin that causes their suffering. We need to follow His example in all we do.
We have all been walking with the Lord for a long time. In my own journey I have seen His infinite patience, continual forgiveness and unconditional love. It is these qualities that have drawn me so close to Him that I'd rather have Him than any other. That's why I want to persevere with these people. Jesus didn't give up on me. He's changed my heart and I want to share His love with this hurting world. Sympathy, grace, and mercy for sinners have always been more important to God than religious rituals. Olivia now needs us to walk alongside her temper tantrums, rejection, etc because we are the best of Jesus she's going to see. We need to demonstrate patience, love, care and concern like we would like to have. We don't get it immediately but we press on because Jesus is our goal. He overcame all obstacles and He will take us forward as a united group.
Much love
Lucy