Remembering is one of the most powerful practices of our faith. It lifts up our spirits when we are low. It increases our confidence that the Lord is with us. Remembering is prevention; it recenters us in our faith. Remembering reminds us where wisdom and help can be found for daily life. Forgetting leads us into some of the most difficult life situations.
Our ancestors, when they were in Egypt, did not consider your wonderful works; they did not remember the abundance of your steadfast love, but rebelled against the Most High at the Red Sea. Yet he saved them for his name’s sake, so that he might make known his mighty power. [Psalm 106:708]
One of the gifts we experience with each new year of our lives is the collective memory. This rhythm of faithfulness is overwhelming if we pause to consider it. Psalm 106 is a long remembrance of God’s acts of faithfulness. The litany is full of humanity; our propensity to forget, rebel, and find ourselves in awful messes. Each time God’s people cry out for help, God responds. Time and time again, we see the kindness of God’s mercy. We experience redemption and restoring.
Many times he delivered them, but they were rebellious in their purposes, and were brought low through their iniquity. Nevertheless, he regarded their distress when he heard their cry. For their sake he remembered his covenant, and showed compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love. [Psalm 106:43-45]
Last night this Psalm came across my reading, and it gave me strength. Like the refreshment of a glass of water after a long hike, this remembering of how faithful God is changes the way we walk through life. Do you need to be reminded? Do you find yourself leaning on some lesser source for your life situations? Or maybe you’ve forgotten how faithfully God works within our lives. Perhaps Psalm 106 can offer some assistance.
Practices Start naming the ways God has been kind to you. Just a few words – a sentence that reminds you. Write them down; let it become your remembering psalm. In moments of discouragement or when you feel forgotten, pull out your psalm. Read it with amazement and gratitude.
Read Psalm 106 and notice the rhythm of God’s provision for the people in all seasons. God allows rebellion and forgetfulness to have its course. When we recognize our errors, the Lord hears our cries and restores us to the foundations of God’s love and righteousness. When you read Psalm 106 as a holy practice, you are joining the many generations of God’s people in naming God’s faithfulness. It is powerful and it will change your days! Read Psalm 106 here: https://bit.ly/Practice106
Prayer Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. [Psalm 106:47]
Do you ever feel like your mouth needs to be guarded? Do you ever feel the pull to be drawn into something that you know is destructive, but you are drawn to it anyway? Does the luxury of comfort, money, or even an unhealthy relationship beg for your attention and commitment?
Welcome to the life of being human! We often speak without thinking. We are lured into situations that bring trouble into our lives. We want to be safe, comfortable, and loved however that may be offered; even when it’s not good. Paul describes our situation well when he acknowledges our fragility even though we are a miracle of God; it is the “clay jar” of our human vessel.
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. – II Corinthians 4:7
Psalm 141 lands on my ears and mind as a balm. It is a helpful grace. It is a prayer that not only calls upon the Lord for assistance, it offers wisdom for the journey as we navigate through life. There is so much beautiful and amazing about this world that God created! There is so much broken and breaking in our world! “Breaking News” is perhaps the headline that tells us that we are breaking. We need divine help and repair.
Psalm 141
I call to you,Lord, come quickly to me; hear me when I call to you. 2 May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
3 Set a guard over my mouth,Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. 4 Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies.
5 Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness; let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it, for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers.
6 Their rulers will be thrown down from the cliffs, and the wicked will learn that my words were well spoken. 7 They will say, “As one plows and breaks up the earth, so our bones have been scattered at the mouth of the grave.”
8 But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge—do not give me over to death. 9 Keep me safe from the traps set by evildoers, from the snares they have laid for me. 10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by in safety.
In environments where “evil” is lurking, we see things like the enticement of luxuries or “delicacies”. We hear words and stories that are falsely represented; sometimes even by our own minds! We experience temptation without regard for others; no concern for the impact one action has upon another person. Often all of this looks “good” while we are being drawn into it.
And in those same environments or moments, there is an invitation to tap into something more powerful. It is a higher offer; a gift God offers. Something miraculous is possible when the Spirit of the Lord intervenes. This prayer that we know as Psalm 141 calls it forth.
While we allow the Lord to “set a guard over our mouths”, we are giving space for others to speak. This venting will often reveal its own motivation. Listen for what is behind the words you hear. In another setting it may allow someone to empty themselves of something that is binding and hindering them from healing. Allow it. Let the Lord guard our mouths, not rushing to defend or correct. Give space to see what is really happening. Maybe we have nothing that needs to be said. Whatever this “guarding” may be; silence can be a grace.
The practice of listening before I speak always takes intentional effort for me. I have to practice it. Not jumping to what “I” want to say, but to wait and listen.
The “draw to evil” that the Psalmist mentions might be the lure of argument, judgement, or assumption. It can be the easy path of drawing lines that can keep others out and elevates us to a higher place, where our own temptations or weaknesses are disguised. It may be, surprisingly, jumping in to “fix” something that is not ours to fix; a “rescue” of another person’s needed journey.
The variations and ways “traps and snares” are presented are numerous. But most often they come in the way that we are uniquely enticed or lured. We all have our triggers and inspirations! It may be money, lust, power, excitement, fight, managing someone else’s life; take your pick! In these moments we need people of wisdom who have our best interests at heart to meet us… offering grace, correction, and wisdom.
Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness; let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it, for my prayer will still be against the deeds of evildoers.
There is a time to speak. Words of honesty are helpful and even freeing. Words of caution spoken in love are the words of a true friend. Wisdom is given when we wait for it and listen. When Jesus was preparing the disciples for their first experience of “being sent”, he knew they were going out into a world that was not “safe”. Jesus offered them exactly what they needed:
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. – Matthew 10:16-20
God did not make their circumstances all safe and without challenge. The Lord provided access to divine help to offer everyone a different experience, an encounter with the resurrected Christ. …the wicked will learn that my words were well spoken. (Psalm 141:6b)
Even when we are not aware, the Lord is intervening to bring forth the kingdom. This is our trust; it is our faith.
Our human experience is a profound grace, a miracle. And we are all broken just the same. We journey with the hope and confidence that the Lord is walking with us; guiding, protecting, correcting, and assisting. Every day. All the time. In every way we can receive. God’s love for us is steadfast and true.
Lord, thank you for the ancient prayers of those who have gone before us. Thank you for the ways you invite us to depend upon and trust you to assist us on the journey. We say and do so many things that we regret! But you, Lord, make it clear that your help and full equipping is accessible and ready to launch. You are amazing! Come quickly, Lord Jesus! We give you the praise! Amen.
After so many days of heat, the rain was all blessing. I watched the steam rising up from the pavement, it was as if the whole of creation was sighing with relief. The grass and trees must have been shouting “thank you” as water dripped from their dry, exhausted foliage.
Tonight the sunset seemed to announce the joy we feel. I will not attempt to add to its beauty with words. I offer glimpses and a prayer. Whether it is for tonight or the morning coming, may our confidence in our Creator be strengthened. May our joy be ever present.
Dance at sunset; July 9, 2022
Lord, we see your creativity in the ordinary rhythms of nature and we are overwhelmed with your beauty. The skies dance at your hand! The sunset follows its path, a practice set in place by You that unfolds every day. Nothing is out of place. And yet, every setting of the sun is for that moment in history; it will never occur again in exactly this way. You, LORD, amaze us! Help us to trust you with our days. Allow us the gift of witnessing your presence in our lives and in our world. Please continue the redeeming work of equipping and maturing us for your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. We are in awe of you, Lord, and we are grateful. Please grant peace to those who sleep; and inspiration to those waking. We welcome you into the spaces of this night that leave us wanting. We welcome your joy as the morning breaks fully open. You, Lord, are the only One who holds this night. You are the only One who holds the dawning of a new day. Help us to honor you by living it fully, with gratitude and joy. We trust you, Father, and we love you. Thank you for the gift of this dance. Amen.
“I am weary, God, but I can prevail. Surely I am only a brute, not a man; I do not have human understanding.”
“I have not learned wisdom, nor have I attained to the knowledge of the Holy One.“
“Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Whose hands have gathered up the wind? Who has wrapped up the waters in a cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is the name of his son? Surely you know!“
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.” – Proverbs 30:1-6
It turns out that even though we humans can engage in the intimacy of relationship with our Creator, there remains so much we do not know.
I find myself truly dependent on the wisdom of the Lord to guide me in all things. Without divine help, my own steps lead me where grace is illusive, and burdens pile up without reason. There is a lot of freedom in knowing how much God can do, when we can do nothing!
Listening to these Proverbs as I walk this morning, I hear Jesus speaking too: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. – Jesus in the Gospel of John 15:4
Morning walk; late June 2022
Lord, where your people are weary, please provide hope and strength today. Where sorrow has interrupted the best of plans, give your peace that refuses to abandon. Be our refuge and shield; our joy and strength. Our hope is in you, and it is good; we trust you completely! Amen.
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting and strife. – Proverbs 17:1
Morning fog rising, summer 2022
May the peace of Christ be in your home; in your waking and work, your coming and going. May joy and laughter take a seat at your table; and your rest bring refreshment to your soul. Amen.
“A patient man has great understanding, but a quick tempered man displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29
Perhaps one of the blessings that comes with time is patience. Whether in seasons of success or suffering, this virtue seems to never fail. It is like a muscle that develops over years of training. You can’t get there quickly; you just have to take one step at a time.
It is also a total act of trust for me. To be patient now means that I trust God. In training or healing; in work that takes years to reach completion; even muddling my way through the unknown with confidence that God is working all things out…patience is gained through living it.
In a season of difficulty many years ago I came upon this quote by Mother Teresa. It was written on a card where I could keep it visible in my daily routine. Over time the words lodged deep within me. And lodging there, this became a prayer of trust and patience for me. I’m still receiving blessings from that wisdom…poured into me by someone who knew well the path.
Let nothing trouble you, Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing. God never changes. Patience obtains all things. He who possesses God lacks nothing. God alone suffices. – Mother Teresa
God of patience and mercy, thank you for never giving up on us. Help us to trust you in moments we want to act too quickly or walk away too soon. We need never to give up on what you are doing in our lives and in the world. Thank you for your faithfulness and love. We trust you completely. Amen.
Summer has its own rhythm. The heat of the sun reminds me how important perspective is when seasons change. We all do things in the summer that we don’t do other times of year. Water and lightening bugs; cookouts and watermelon. Vacations for some; camps and retreats for others.
I have an annual practice of reading through the book of Proverbs in the summer. These verses of wisdom are reminders. They quicken my mind and spirit. Ancient wisdom rises to the surface and foolishness is placed in the light where it can be seen for what it is.
This book of wisdom encourages, corrects, clarifies and makes me think. It’s funny how much I need the reminders! Thus, every summer I return to these words.
I read whatever chapter matches the date. Today, June 13th, is Proverbs 13. Just looking for one sentence that I can carry through the day. I don’t worry so much about missing a day, I just do this through June-July until I’ve read all 30 chapters of the book. It’s my summer renewing of the mind.
Occasionally a friend will join me in the reading and it makes for good conversation as the summer days pass. It is a great practice for parents and children – especially adult children. It’s a great practice for friends, couples, groups…whomever is up for the blessing of engaging in the adventure.
“Pride only breeds quarrels, But wisdom is found in those who take advice.” – Proverbs 13:10
This weekend I attended the 92nd birthday party of a distant cousin and a Celebration of Life for a 100 year old friend. In both places I was surrounded by my elders. Men and women who have shared life wisdom, both by example and conversations. What a treasured gift!
As you begin your week, perhaps a dip into the pool of Proverbs wisdom will refresh your mind and spirit. You won’t be alone; I’ll be reading with you.
God of wisdom and mercy, thank you for providing a way for us to encounter your ancient teaching. Thank you for people who have eyes to see and ears to hear. Give us a humble character, Lord, to listen; and courage to follow when this gift comes from you. Forgive us for our pride in thinking we know so much. Open us to what you offer; we need you. We welcome your Spirit to teach us.
1 I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me. 2 Save me, Lord, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues.
3 What will he do to you, and what more besides, you deceitful tongue? 4 He will punish you with a warrior’s sharp arrows, with burning coals of the broom bush.
5 Woe to me that I dwell in Meshek, that I live among the tents of Kedar! 6 Too long have I lived among those who hate peace. 7 I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war. – Psalm 120 (NIV)
Sometimes the Psalms give us words to offer when we have none. They give us voice in prayer, lament and hope. The prayers of the people all over the world are what unite us tonight. We are calling on our Creator God for divine help; for peace that only God can bring.
Holy God, for all who are in need of your peace tonight, please rush in closely and quickly to each one. We ask humbly and boldly for the resurrected Christ to stand in the midst of people seeking shelter; in the middle of streets where war is raging. We pray the resurrected Christ is standing near each leader and decision maker giving them wisdom and discernment; correcting when it is needed and giving courage that is beyond anything we can create. We pray that our own hearts and spirits remain steadfast, humble and faithful in all the ways you call us to be present in this time. And we ask, Holy God, that you help us to always be instruments of your peace in every place we are right now. We are not people who wage war. Amen.
Statue of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. @ Abbey of Gethsemane in KY.
Nudges of your Spirit come in the wee hours. Perhaps, Lord, someone you love is reaching for your hand of grace. We are seen. Even in the wee hours. Reaching into the dark spaces of grief and uncertainty of pain. Come now, Holy Spirit, come. Come now with your mercy into the wee hours of our lives.
Where suffering has interrupted the days of a focused life; Lord have mercy. When grief grips our souls and tugs against the pursuit of healing; Lord have mercy. For the past that returns unwanted, for the futures we dare to dream; Lord have mercy. Bring your arms of grace around our trembling bodies. Offer your blanket of peace to cover the places of our lives left out in the cold unattended.
Lead us to our simple prayers: Help! Mercy! Come quickly Lord Jesus to help us! Remind us again that your love persists In the wee hours In the waking hours In all hours.
For you, Holy God, created us and placed us in time on earth Where your grace is never offered too early, and never arrives too late. We find our peace in the arms of the resurrected Christ holding us all again. One miracle moment at a time. Bring rest. Restore our breathing. Bring peace. Let your love lead us back to sleep. Amen.
“While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. “ – Matthew 26:6-7
Bethany is the town where Lazarus and his sisters lived, but in this situation, the meal is at Simon’s house. It is the most unexpected house to host a meal. Simon was known as a “leper” until he was healed by Christ. Now he is hosting a meal for Jesus.
The woman that comes with the expensive perfume is named as “Mary” when John writes his account of this story (John 12:3). She must have been saving this perfume for just the right situation and time. It is valuable. Somehow she knew (by God’s grace and a nudge of the Spirit?) that this is the time, this is the moment, for her to give it. She chooses to give it all to Jesus. She doesn’t know why, she just knows she is supposed to offer it.
The disciples – the followers of Jesus – are appalled. It is too extravagant; a waste. Jesus is pleased; she obeyed the nudge of the Spirit and did something that involved her in his story of redemption. God’s plans are fulfilled. This woman’s offer of love and devotion prepares Jesus to offer his greatest gift of love: to lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13)
We know Christ’s sacrifice is near; and we know resurrection is coming. His preparation and her involvement in his journey of obedience…these are moments of faithful risk. In the kingdom of God we take risks to love across societal norms, boundaries that limit access to Christ, and even fears whether they are real or imagined.
We return to the neighborhood today and knock on doors to invite the children to come out for “Bible Club”. Some will say yes. Some will wait for another day. We will teach the Bible stories, play games and sing. Love, friendship and joy will be shared, if even for a few short hours of the day.
I do wonder… Is it possible that we, who are so deeply distracted with our busy lives, are bringing “perfume” to the neighborhood? Or is it much more likely that Jesus finds us in Simon, the Leper, and asks us to come into the neighborhood and be healed so we can serve others with him?
Jesus is grateful for the woman’s lavish love. He says this moment is so important that every time this story is told, her act of faith and love will be shared. He wanted us to know this. She took the risk of walking into a setting where women were not typically welcomed. She gave her greatest gift and it prepared him for his. How are you giving your best for Christ?
Prayer God help us to walk humbly as we go through your neighborhoods today. Heal in us whatever keeps us from loving and serving you freely. We have no good apart from you so please come near. We love you. We trust you completely. Thank you for trusting and loving us enough to bring us here with you.
Bible Club lot #streetreachBible Club lot #streetreach
Serving with our youth group in Memphis. The joy of witnessing what God is doing in our teenagers is a gift. Being with children in the neighborhood is just finding where Jesus is already and joining the miracle. Grateful.
Life in the Deep End 