God Is Near

I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Psalm 34:2 (NIV)

Paul wrote: Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Philippians 4:4–5

REFLECTION:
These two passages stir in me a peace and a joy that is difficult to put into words...

The Psalm reminds us that when we feel afflicted, we can still rejoice because God is near.
The Philippians reading reminds us that gratitude, joy, and gentleness are hallmarks of a mature faith that rests secure in the knowledge that God is near.

So today, that's the simple message: God is near to you. God is near to me.

This gives us the courage to be joyful, even in the face of difficulty.
This gives us the grounding to be grateful, even when counting our curses seems more obvious.
This gives us the strength to be gentle, even when our world seems to say true might is found in power.

So...let joy flow. Let gratitude fill your heart. Let gentleness be your way of dealing with others.
God is near.

PRAYER:
God, thank you for caring for each of us by name. May we respond by sharing your love quietly but firmly with those we meet each day. In gratitude, we say, Amen.