7th. May. 2022. Daily Devotion.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? Psalm 121:1
Every continent on earth has mountains. Some are cold, rugged, and difficult to climb. Others are favourite vacation spots. Still others are sources of water, timber, and other natural resources. Those of us who live within view of a mountain range are reminded daily of God’s greatness and our smallness.
Psalm 121 asks us to consider that same contrast.
Setting out for their trip to Jerusalem for a festival, pilgrims often sang this song to remind each other of the dangers of the journey ahead and of the assurances of God’s protection. God is greater than any so-called god of the hills or mountains—the Lord God is earth’s Creator. God is more powerful than any force of the sun or moon—the Lord created them too. The false gods of other nations might have had to take vacations, but not the Lord God Almighty, who never slumbers or sleeps.
Whenever we set off on a journey—whether it is a trip of hundreds of miles or only a few steps—we can remind ourselves, as those pilgrims did, that we travel with God. We need not fear the dangers of the road or threats from others; every step of our way is seen by God, who watches over us.
Our God, the Creator of earth’s highest mountains and deepest valleys—and everything in between—is also the protector of our small lives. Thea Leunk.
Lord, protect us from all harm; keep watch over our lives, we pray. Watch over our coming and going today and always, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Heart of a Child
Grant me this day, O God, the heart of a child,
Pure and transparent as a spring;
A simple heart, which never harbours sorrows;
A heart glorious in self-giving,
tender in compassion;
A heart faithful and generous,
which will never forget any good
or bear a grudge for any evil.
Make me a heart gentle and humble,
loving without asking any return,
large-hearted and undauntable,
which no ingratitude can sour
and no indifference can weary;
a heart penetrated by the love of Jesus
whose desire will only be satisfied in heaven.
Grant me, O Lord, the mind and heart of your dear Son. Amen. ~ translated from an old French prayer, ca. 1880
Holy and Gracious God, we pray for the people of Ukraine and the people of Russia; for their countries and their leaders.
We pray for all those who are afraid; that your everlasting arms hold them in this time of great fear.
We pray for all those who have the power over life and death; that they will choose for all people life, and life in all its fullness.
We pray for those who choose war; that they will remember that you direct your people to turn our swords into ploughshares and seek for peace.
We pray for leaders on the world stage; that they are inspired by the wisdom and courage of Christ. Above all, Lord, today we pray for peace for Ukraine. And we ask this in the name of your blessed Son. Lord have mercy. Amen