Look Up

I recently mentioned that we were doing a Easter devotion series called "It Is Finished."  A couple of weeks before this whole lock down, quarantine COVID 19 craziness started there was an entry entitled "Promised Presence."   This day's devotional was based on the words Jesus spoke on the cross, "My God, why have you forsaken Me."    The reading goes on to explain that because Jesus was forsaken we will never be.  I want to share the exercise the devotion gave for that day, because I believe more than ever we need to remind ourselves to look up.  The idea was to list your fears, your the things that make you anxious, things that caused pain and after each one, write Deuteronomy 31:6  He will not leave you or forsake you.  

For example:  (and this is from my list)

Retirement.  He will not leave me or forsake me.
Moving.  He will not leave me or forsake me.
Anger/Sin.  He will not leave me or forsake me.
Changing.  He will not leave me or forsake me. 

Whatever you fill that first part in with, the answer is always the same.  He will not leave you or forsake you.  Isaiah 54:8  In a burst of anger I turned my face away for a little while. But with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord, your Redeemer.  God's love is forever.  His care and compassion unending.  The world may be feeling His anger (but yet He longs to cradle them in His heart), but His children can rest in the everlasting arms of our Lord. 

Lord, let us look up.  When we look around, listen to the world's heralds all we see is chaos, all we hear is doom and gloom...But when we look at You we see a refuge.  When we keep our eyes fixed on You and use our faith we are strengthened and remain at peace.  I ask that You destroy this virus.  I thank You for the good I see all around me, people helping one another and caring for one another.  Let Your church lead the way in this.  Thank You that You will never, in no way, ever forsake Your children.  Use this time to draw people to Yourself.   We are beyond blessed that whatever happens, You are always by our sides.  Focus our hearts today on that fact.  Strengthen those whose faith is wavering.  Give us God visits!  We need to see Your hand!  Lord, please help those who are sick to get well, bring healing.  Please keep those safe from harm who are still working, helping others and doing what needs to be done.  Give our leaders wisdom, Your wisdom and let them turn to You at this time.  You are the God of all answers.  The one true way.  In Jesus Name.  Amen.