Rest is good. We’re taking a break from producing content over the summer. Enjoy this previously produced pattern and meditation.
With all the noise in the world, do you hear the voice of God? Your calendar tells you what to do, but do you remember who you are? Being comes before doing. This is a call to put first things first. Return to the Lord with this daily pattern of prayer and devotion. Set aside this time as a sanctuary. Find a space free of distraction and follow this pattern.
Invitation Prayer
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matt. 5:8) O Lord, you see all things. Purify my heart that I may see you clearly. Amen.
Word: John 3:16-17
God loved the world in this way, He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Meditation
The Traveler’s Needs (a parable)
A traveler and his companion prepared to set out on a long journey. In preparation, the traveler packed a second coat. His companion asked, “Why are you bringing a second coat?”
The traveler responded: “I will need it.”
The traveler then packed a second pair of shoes. His companion asked, “Why are you bringing a second pair of shoes?”
The traveler responded, “I will need them.”
The traveler then packed extra food into his bag. Two of every kind of food he would bring. His companion asked, “Why are you bringing two of every kind of food?”
The traveler responded, “I will need it.”
The traveler’s companion finally set his small bag down and said, “ Look how heavy you load is. Mine is light. I have but one coat, one pair of shoes, and just enough food for the days we will be walking. Why do you need so much?”
The traveler said, “Because your coat is old and thin, and your shoes are old and worn. Having walked with you, I also know that you grow hungry often.”
Confounded, the companion said, “But when I asked you about these things, you told me you would need them.”
“You are my companion,” said the traveler. “So long as we walk together, there is no difference between your needs and mine.”
Prayer for the World
· For my city, state, and country.
· For leaders: mayor, governor, president, congress.
· For those who serve the public: police officers, firefighters, teachers, first responders, medical personnel.
· For the nations of the world, for world leaders.
· For good government, good schools, good business.
· For justice, especially for the oppressed: minorities, immigrants and refugees, orphans, widows, the very young or unborn, the aged.
· For creation: for the care of land, air, wildlife, and sea.
Closing Prayer
Father, may I never grow tired of starting over or helping others do the same. My hope is always in renewal and resurrection. In Jesus’ name, Amen!