Thursday, May 14, 2020  

Today’s Hymn
Riches I heed not,
not vain, empty praise;
thou mine inheritance,
now and always;
thou and thou only,
first in my heart,
High King of Heaven,
my treasure thou art.

“Be Thou My Vision” (v. 3), translation by Mary E. Byrne
Hymn 450, Glory to God: The Presbyterian Hymnal

Reflection
During this time of quarantine, I’ve noticed my consumption of television, print magazines, and social media has increased dramatically. I’m sure this is the same for many of you as well! I have been reading the stack of glossy fashion magazines that have piled up. I scroll through Instagram a million times a day, looking at clothing, jewelry, and home décor. I have caught up on a lot of television shows on Bravo, my go-to television station. While watching, I drool over the houses, the clothes, the glam squads, the cars, and the vacations that those celebrities have. Even while watching the news during the evenings, I “ooooo” and “ahhhhh” over some of the kitchens that news anchors are reporting from. Little by little, jealousy and want starts to sneak in. Thoughts like “I wish I had a nice house, not this tiny apartment,” “I wish I could dress like she does,” and “Wouldn’t it be nice to have tons of money and all of these things” fill my mind.

The third verse of “Be Thou My Vision” provides us with a more Godly way of thinking. We do not need to worry about our riches and possessions or other people’s opinions of us. God’s love and care is with us now and forever more. We do not need fancy cars, clothes, and accolades from others. We are rich with God’s love, and what a treasure that is for us to hold in our hearts!

Prayer
Loving God, how blessed I am to have the treasure of your love in my heart. Help me to keep focus on you, especially when envy and jealously begin to sneak into my thoughts. Amen.

Written by Briana Belding-Peck, Family Ministry Coordinator

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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