Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
May 1, 2024
Isaiah 61:1-6
1 The LORD God’s spirit is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me. He has sent me to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim release for captives, and liberation for prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and a day of vindication for our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3 to provide for Zion’s mourners, to give them a crown in place of ashes, oil of joy in place of mourning, a mantle of praise in place of discouragement. They will be called Oaks of Righteousness, planted by the LORD to glorify himself. 4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins; they will restore formerly deserted places; they will renew ruined cities, places deserted in generations past. 5 Foreigners will stay and shepherd your sheep, and strangers will be your farmers and vinedressers. 6 You will be called The Priests of the LORD; Ministers of Our God, they will say about you. You will feed on the wealth of nations, and fatten yourself on their riches.
Good Morning! Each day is a new day of opportunity!
When darkness seems to have enveloped us, God finds a way to give us glimpses of light. The closer we move towards the light, the brighter it becomes. The darkness disappears and becomes but a memory.
Each new day is a new opportunity to move towards the light. I have noticed that when I am troubled, I wake up in the early morning before sunrise. As I gaze into the darkness, I gather my thoughts and talk to God. Sometimes words form, but most times it is quiet contemplation.
Slowly, as the morning light begins to creep into view, I can let go of my troubles and leave them to the darkness that is fading away. When the light of the new day fills the sky, I am filled with God’s peace and love.
Gracious God, Thank you for this beautiful gift of life. Out of the darkness, comes the light. The closer we move to the light, the brighter it becomes. When our hearts are troubled, you bring us hope. We thank you! In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When we feel empty, God’s love can fill us.
Embrace the light! Pastor Liz