02-20-21

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
February 20, 2021
Scripture: 1 Chronicles 16:1
Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his presence continually.

Thought for the Day: What does it mean to seek the strength of the Lord? I assume it means to not only find the source of strength, but to also draw upon that strength when it is found. These words from 1 Chronicles are part of a worship song, of hymn of praise. It is uncertain whether the newly appointed song leader, Asaph, is singing or if David if teaching the song. Yet what’s clear is the seeking of the Lord’s strength is done within the worshipping community. So often people come to me requesting help, wanting to find spiritual strength for whatever they face. There are things we can provide one on one, but community appears to be one of the vehicles God uses for the delivery of strength. I am talking about relationships that have been developed and nurtured over time. Sitting in the pre-surgery waiting room, I have witnessed many times a group of friends, maybe members of the Sunday School class or another ministry group walk into the space. It changes the dynamic of the moment. These are often folks who have a rich history with the individual preparing for surgery and I just watch the temperament and spiritual disposition of the person change for the better. It is as if they are drawing upon the Lord’s strength contained within the community itself.

Prayer: Continue to provide me life-giving relationships where your strength is often stored, transported and shared. Lord, your living presence is most often made real in the community itself, a community based in your love. Thank you for that gift! Amen.

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