Reflections for Lent

Psalm 19 NRSV

The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens and its circuit to the end of them, and nothing is hid from its heat. The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. But who can detect one’s own errors? Clear me from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless and innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

God’s Wondrous Creation

Living in our area, we can travel easily to observe magnificent aspects of God’s creation, such as mountains, lakes, rivers, or oceans. We are surrounded by God‘s creation around our homes and towns. Vast skies, forests, and wildlife inspire awe. On my drive to work, there is an intersection where birds gather on the powerlines. Often, there are too many birds for me to count. Sometimes, they fly together as a group. No matter the weather, the birds are there. 

These birds, with their constancy and adaptability, remind me of God’s love and care for all creation. Psalm 19 encourages us to notice God’s marvelous handiwork everywhere in His creation and to follow His commands and teachings in our daily lives. God’s people are included in the beauty and wonder of creation. We are to reflect His beauty through our minds, hearts, and actions. We are to seek God’s help and allow Him to change and mold us as He chooses. We strive to recognize His handiwork in others that we interact with – whether they are family, friends, neighbors, strangers, or even individuals with whom we experience conflict. 

God’s word prepares our minds and hearts and guides us in His will and plan for creation. We are confident that God will shape us and use us as His instruments to play our roles in His wonderful world. 

~Suzanne Fowley~ 

Open our eyes and hearts to see the beauty of your creation everywhere and in everyone. Let us pray with sincerity, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)