Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Today’s Scripture Reading  |  Psalm 114

When Israel went out from Egypt,
   the house of Jacob from a people of strange language,
Judah became God’s sanctuary,
   Israel his dominion.

The sea looked and fled;
   Jordan turned back.
The mountains skipped like rams,
   the hills like lambs.

Why is it, O sea, that you flee?
   O Jordan, that you turn back?
O mountains, that you skip like rams?
   O hills, like lambs?

Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord,
   at the presence of the God of Jacob,
who turns the rock into a pool of water,
   the flint into a spring of water. (NRSV)

Reflection
There is redemption, deliverance, protection, and provision in the presence of God. Psalm 114 is a tribute to the overflowing generosity of God in delivering the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. The psalmist demonstrates the power of God and conveys the miracles that occur when God is near.

God is all powerful. Even the earth trembles in awe and respect of the Holy Presence. “Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turns the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of water.” The earth responds to the majesty of God; the seas take flight, the mountains jump, and the rocks transform into springs of water. This is the God who provides for us unconditionally.

Hopeless and urgent needs are met when God is near. The God who led the Israelites out of bondage is the same God who intervenes in each life situation. You can find strength, peace, love, joy, and hope in the presence of God.

 When life presents trials and challenges, God provides a way out. God is forever with us, leading, guiding, loving, and providing. The same God who provided for the Israelites wandering in the desert will provide for you too because nothing is impossible with God.

God is forever with us, leading, guiding, loving, and providing. Next time you are disheartened by a life situation or struggle, remember there is provision in the presence of Almighty God. Take time to appreciate the great power of God. Look around you to see the manifest power of God in everything that was created.

Prayer
Awesome God, I thank you for your abiding presence and provision. You clothe me, feed me, and provide shelter. I am grateful for your abundant kindness and love. Amen.

Written by Robert Crouch, Director of Volunteer Ministry

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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