Lenten Reflections, Day 24

Friday, March 16th, 2012

Written by: Elaine Cornelius

Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27

It is morning. I walk outside and the sun warms the gentle breeze that blows across my face. I focus on the sounds that often go unnoticed: the wind in the trees, the movements and calls of nature’s animals, the sounds of flowing water and maybe the gentle stirrings marking a house waking up. This non-silent silence reminds me of the blessings that are so near and so real in my life.

This passage is clearly one of blessing. As I read, I realize it is a familiar one I have known since childhood. It seems so straightforward. It really made me wonder how could I say something that might be of use? I started the reflection several times and got nowhere. It’s all written there in black and white, right?

Finally, when all else failed, I prayed. I asked the Lord what I was supposed to say and then I realized this is probably just what Moses had done. Moses said he was no good with words. God chose to use obedient, though imperfect, people to pass on His message of blessing. In our obedience, we see the Lord at work among us, His people. We are called to pass on His message. God has written His name on each of us; His grace is for us all. The Lord doesn’t promise things will be easy. But, His "countenance," His presence, will be upon us and God will give us peace.

Let us Pray:
Lord, We praise You and thank You for walking with us and providing for us. Help us to be obedient to Your call on our lives and give us rest as we are assured of Your presence and grace. In Your holy name we pray, Amen.

FAMILY MOMENT:

What comes to mind when you read these words?
The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you
How about GRACE? If we remember that God blesses us and is gracious toward us, it really broadens our relationship with Him…knowing how much he loves us…truly Amazing Grace!

Practice grace … toward a spouse, child, parent…stranger.