Focus

Pay attention to the tension in your body. Let go of it and any expectations to do anything, but God’s will today. Prepare yourself to hear God’s word.

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Read

Psalm 124 (NRSV)

If it had not been the LORD who was on our side
—let Israel now say—
if it had not been the LORD who was on our side,
when our enemies attacked us,
then they would have swallowed us up alive,
when their anger was kindled against us;
then the flood would have swept us away,
the torrent would have gone over us;
then over us would have gone
the raging waters.

Blessed be the LORD,
who has not given us
as prey to their teeth.
We have escaped like a bird
from the snare of the fowlers;
the snare is broken,
and we have escaped.

Our help is in the name of the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.

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Reflect

“If it had not been the Lord…” Wow! How many times have we been able to say something similar? Sometimes we make light of situations and say: “If it wasn’t for God, I would have gotten a speeding ticket.” “If it weren’t for God, I would have had to walk from the very back of the parking lot.” “If it weren’t for God, I might have said something I shouldn’t have.” These may be legitimate reasons to give praise and credit to God. However, when I read this passage, I thought of the many times in my life and the life of others, where it seems God had prevented the enemy from attacking us or darkness swallowing us up. How many times after the loss of a loved one, have we eventually been able to see the light shine through the darkness? Or how many times after an unexpected diagnosis have we been able to raise our head high? Or how many times while in a difficult situation at work, school, or at home—have we been able to see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Whew! If it wasn’t for God! There are so many things we have escaped from (some knowingly, and others unknowingly). Thanks be to God; our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth.

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Pray

God, we give you praise for all you have done and all you have yet to do. Thank you for your hand of protection, your provision, and your healing presence. May we take notice of your goodness and share it with others. Amen.

Go with God.