OT: Hosea 5-6
NT: 1 Peter 2
W&W: Psalm 135
Today’s Reflection:
This Psalm was from yesterday’s reading, but I couldn’t resist it:
Psalm 134
1 Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD
who minister by night in the house of the LORD.
2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary
and praise the LORD.
3 May the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth,
bless you from Zion.
The second phrase of verse 1 jumped out at me: “…who minister by night in the house of the Lord…”
It’s easy to praise the Lord in the confidence of sunlight. It’s a joy minister to my brother who walks in the daylight of happiness. But, do I minister by night in the "house" [We are God’s house…] of the Lord? When my friend is discouraged and discouraging, when she is depressed and depressing, do I minister in the night of her soul? Or, do I avoid her, saying, “She's a real downer. I don’t want to hang around her!”
Ask yourself:
- Do I offer God’s hope when the darkness of despair falls over a brother or sister?
- When the light fades, am I the light of the world for my friend?
- When understanding ceases, do I – with confidence – point people to the One who works in all things for our good?
- When silence prevails, do offer words of encouragement and direction?
- When loneliness stalks the shadows, am I a friend who chases away isolation?
- When fear lurks around every bend, do I walk with my brother, holding light in hand to guide the way?
- When sorrow wounds the heart of my friend, do I walk with him through the valley of the shadow of death?
Friend, I challenge you and myself: minister by night in the house of the Lord!
This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 Peter 5.10-11: And the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
2 comments:
I am so thankful for the people in my life who have ministered to me in times of darkness. I have many wonderful friends who have been by my side through some great times. And then a few who have been a source of support and encouragement during some of the darkest moments of my life (including you and Mom and my wonderful sisters). Because of the encouragement I received from this group of people, I am stronger in Christ and closer to the Lord. I believe that these people who "minister by night" will be rewarded for their dedication to someone who wasn't much fun to be around for a while. They are responsible for drawing their brothers and sisters closer to the Lord when they might be tempted to pull away. Thanks for being one of those people, Dad! I will be forever grateful to you for your prayers and support (every day!), not just as your daughter but as your sister in Christ!
Thanks, Jenny. I love being your brother in Christ!
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