Quiet Devotions is a daily devotion based on one of the readings from the Daily Lectionary (as it appears in the back of Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Augsburg Fortress, 2006). All biblical quotes are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) unless otherwise noted. May these devotions help bring you in closer relationship with the Triune God.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Year B, Epiphany 3, Wednesday

Inspired by Psalm 46

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.”  Psalm 46:1-3

The world can be a frightening place.  Cultural norms change, calling into question all of our old assumptions.  Human sinfulness causes war and poverty, and natural disasters bring death and destruction.  It is a real challenge to remain hopeful and strong in the face of such turmoil.

Yet God’s love is never changing, and cannot be defeated.  Looking to God can give us the strength and the hope we need to counter all the fear and pain in the world.  God’s love is active in all times and in all places, and continues to apply even as cultures shift and change.  God’s love encourages those who fight for justice and who struggle to change the systems that exploit the poor to serve the rich.  God’s love empowers those who work to rebuild after a natural disaster, and the kindness shown by one human being to another in any circumstance is the love of God working in the world.

Even as the world changes, God proves that he is not bound by the world, and his steadfast love endures forever.

Let us pray.  Enduring God, you have seen the world change beyond recognition, and it continues to change still.  Show us your steadfast love, that we may reflect your hope to all who struggle.  Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

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