11-15-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

November 15, 2019

Scripture: Numbers 6:24-26

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

Thought for the Day: These words may sound familiar to you. They have been said, and continue to be said, as a benediction in many churches and Jewish Synagogues. They came at a time in Israel’s story when the people were preparing to leave Mt. Sinai and continue the journey toward the Promised Land. It was given to them as a blessing for their journey and a daily prayer to be offered along the journey. I’m drawn to the language of the Lord’s face shining upon us. I hear it as a symbol of God’s concern, benevolence and love. What shines upon us is a gift, and for that reason, we must acknowledge that we are recipients only. We have absolutely no control over whether it shines or not. Imagine you are about ready to embark upon this journey, and the destination is sketchy at best. There is fear as you do not know what or who you might meet along the way. Yet every morning these words are spoken over you, maybe even as the sun is rising. It is to be understood as symbol, yet to feel the warmth of the sun and to see it break open the darkness of the night would have reinforced how the Lord’s face (concern, benevolence and love) was truly shining upon you.

Prayer: Lord, I seek your blessing that holds me; I ask for the glory of your smile to be visible to me; I love how your Spirit is with me always, and how you provide me peace. Amen.

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