Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Again one in human form touched me and strengthened me. He said, ‘Do not fear, greatly beloved, you are safe. Be strong and courageous!’ When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, ‘Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.’”
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, August 29, 2024
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
Daniel had been leveled by the weight of God’s visions. Physically and emotionally. When the heavenly being comes to tell him there’s another vision in store, Daniel says, “I can’t do it. I’m too much of a mess.” The being touches him, strengthens him, and remind him he is loved, safe, strong, and courageous.
It's so easy to be overwhelmed when we hear about all the tragedies occurring around us—in our own lives, to people we know, to strangers and communities, to nations. War, disease, natural disaster, injustice, oppression, genocide. We want to close our eyes and ears to the pain. How can we cope? How can we go about our lives when these things are happening all around us?
We can. Because we are loved and safe and strong and courageous. And because no matter what happens to anyone—even the very worst—we are not alone and all will be well. We cannot let despair keep us from living, and from loving, and from working toward the inbreaking of God’s reign into the world here and now. May God strengthen each of us to hear God’s call.
How do I manage my overwhelm with the state of the world?
