Lenten Devotional Day 9
Lenten Devotional
By Paul Brooks
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord my strength and my redeemer. Amen.
Scripture Reading:
Psalm 3:3-5
But you, Lord, are a shield around me,
my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
I call out to the Lord,
and he answers me from his holy mountain.
I lie down and sleep;
I wake up again, because the Lord sustains me.
My experience:
In the morning, I had tested positive for COVID-19. As a chronic asthmatic, I had reason to be concerned. Barbara’s negative test had not come back yet, and she was worried for us both, but we knew we must quarantine in the house. She was most worried that I would sleep alone and she wouldn’t know if I slipped into a crisis. I put on a brave face with her: “I’ll be fine. I have my phone; I’ll call you if I need you.” But alone in my bed that first night, I was scared. I didn’t want to fall asleep. And so I prayed. And prayed. And prayed. And God answered me.
As I prayed, I felt a blanket of comfort wrap around me. It brings tears to my eyes to remember it. I felt a peace that I cannot put into words, settling my soul. I knew that no matter what happened, I was going to be fine. My eyes grew heavy, my heart quieted down and I mercifully drifted off to sleep. When I awoke the next morning, I was refreshed and thankful. I was confident that I was in the Lord’s hands. The Lord sustains me!
Prayer:
Almighty and most merciful Father, your love and compassion for us surpasses anything we could ever hope for. Though we have erred and strayed like lost sheep, you never leave our side. Through Jesus, you restore us in your sight. Through the Holy Spirit, you comfort and guide us in your ways. Pour down on us the continual dew of your blessing, that we may truly please you. Let us give thanks to you in all circumstances, and always keep our trust in you. Through our mediator and advocate, Jesus Christ. Amen.