Watching the sunrise
March 27, 2020 | Val Lindenschmidt
About the author: Val Lindenschmidt has attended ZPC since 1999. She and husband John joined the church in 2012.
About this post: We want to stay connected! This blog post is part of a series of daily devotionals for this season. Read them, share them, and pray that they bring God's peace and love to our communities. To sign up to receive text notification of these posts, text zpc to 39970. We welcome your comments and questions each day.
Scripture: Psalm 91
It seems there is news coming at me from all sides right now. Television, phone, computers, and social media are everywhere. It is hard to find rest, let alone peace. My usual meetings with my small group ladies, my home group friends, and my ZPC family aren’t doable. The rhythm of worship and prayer that I usually lean on isn’t possible. These disruptions lead to confusion and fear.
I have started a new routine to begin my days centered on God’s promises. Every morning I set my alarm to see the sunrise. It is just miraculous! First there is a pink glow, then a bit of yellow and then the sun peeks over the horizon. This daily occurrence–this miracle–reminds me of the promises God gives me every day. He loves me, shelters me, and is my refuge in all the craziness of the outside world.
Psalm 91 (sometimes called the ‘Psalm of Protection”) is also comforting. It calms me and reminds me of how awesome God is.
It begins:1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.” (NIV)
God promises rest, if I stay in his shadow (his presence).
He promises refuge, if I trust.
He promises a fortress (or protection) when we need it.
In other words, He’s got this!
My challenge to you this week, is to wake and watch just one sunrise. Watch as the colors go from pink, to yellow. Watch as a glimmer of sunshine peeks through. Then rest in the promise of a new day, and the reminder of the miracles God has waiting for us.
Prayer
Father God,
Forgive me for forgetting how awesome you are. Forgive me for forgetting how much you love me and for the gifts you give me every day. Thank you for the rest you provide, especially during these troubling times. Help me to trust you and stay close to you in everything I face.
Amen