Scripture: Isaiah 41:10
Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand.
Thought for the Day: This is a passage I have used often at memorial services as I believe it speaks well to the context, but its meaning stretches well beyond that single setting. Grief is not the only experience that produces a sense of loneliness or alienation. So many things can leave us feeling disconnected. With that said, waiting until these highly emotional and painful moments come our way before connecting with God is often a little late. Not that God is going to be petty and turn away, but like any good relationship, there is upfront work necessary …and it’s even more challenging when we’re talking faith. It is one thing to speak these words from Isaiah. It is very different to claim them with a sense of conviction. Make sure you take the time today to reintroduce yourself to God in prayer, study, silence or meditation.
Prayer: You declare your presence with us, O God of Kindness and Mercy. May we have a relationship with you that gives rise to a true sense of that presence in our good moments and in those moments that are painful and difficult. Amen.
