John 14:27
May 13, 2021
Matthew 5:3
May 15, 2021
14 May, 2021
For though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit appears on the vine, Though the yield of the olive fails and the terraces produce no nourishment, Though the flocks disappear from the fold and there is no herd in the stalls, Yet I will rejoice in the Lord and exult in my saving God. – Habakkuk 3:17-18
Heavenly Father, you are the Rock of our Salvation, our Refuge and Fortress in times of turmoil and tribulation and we cling to your promises and your fidelity to your people everywhere. You are the source of our joy and we rejoice in our Righteous God, in your Power and Might, in your Justice and Mercy. We approach you in holy fear and great hope of your graces and blessings bestowed on those of us who follow you with pure hearts. We delight and triumph in our God who is Everlasting and Unchangeable. And this attribute gives us joy and hope. If you are with us, even in nothing, is everything.
Lord, we rely on your steadfastness and faithfulness even when evil seems to be flourishing around us and the wicked seem to prosper. You pour your gifts on all of your creation in like measure, and supply all our needs. But those who betray your love have to, ultimately, make retribution for their misdeeds and these receive deliverance, if they repent with humble and contrite hearts. But your wrath is poured out on the proud and rebellious and they perish because of their falsehood and hypocrisy.
All those who trust in your mercy and justice, even when everything is taken from them and their future seems bleak, believe in their Provider and you give them sustenance and assuage their sorrow. You are a zealous God and desire absolute obedience from your faithful. Jesus has restored us to you by his death and resurrection and has prepared us for crosses we will have to bear with endurance. When we are in communion with you, we are elevated and are joyful even in seasons of great distress, because we may lose all, but our faith and trust in your provision sees us through, in Jesus’ Name. Amen
