THANKFUL

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Good morning, Jesus.

Lord, this madness is all around. How did the world get this way? At times, we’re anxious of what is happening in our nation, in our state, and in my community. We see scary situations at work and think, “Am I next?” With the Market is up one day and down the next, fears of “will my money last” linger in our mind. The privileged flaunt the law with impunity, and walk free, yet if we tried their shenanigans, well . . . just send our mail to the hoosegow. The righteous see the rise in popularity of ridiculous anti-Christian, political ideologies that threaten our freedoms, and we think why can’t folks not see the dangers? Our minds know you are in control, Lord Jesus, but our hearts need that peaceful assurance that only you can give.

Your disciples faced a similar situation. Their souls erupted with anxiety—What will we do without you—when you told them you must leave and go to the cross. But you calmed their fears and promised them peace. “I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you—Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So . . . don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught” (John 14:27 MSG). Centuries ago, your servant Isaiah wrote how to keep from being rattled by events unfolding around us: “For those that meditate on your promises and goodness, you will keep their mind from worry and anxiousness, their soul will be at peace, because they have placed their trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3).

Lord. help us discipline our mind to stay focused on you. Help us tune out those noisy, clanging voices that are attempting to draw us away from you. Let us hear your tender, yet powerful, voice as we focus on your life-giving, peace-making promises found in your word.

May the sick and afflicted hear your voice today. Restore hope where hope has waned. Give joy and gladness when sorry and mourning have had their time and need to go away. Raise new faith when faith has grown weak. Today, despite illness, flood us with your peace as we meditate on you, Lord God.

Thinking about you, Jesus, all day long. Amen.