Morning Devotional 031625 Standing Vigil

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

  March 16, 2025

Matthew 26:36-39

36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. He said to the disciples, “Stay here while I go and pray over there.” 37 When he took Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, he began to feel sad and anxious. 38 Then he said to them, “I’m very sad. It’s as if I’m dying. Stay here and keep alert with me.” 39 Then he went a short distance farther and fell on his face and prayed, “My Father, if it’s possible, take this cup of suffering away from me. However—not what I want but what you want.” 

Good Morning. Celebrate this Lord’s Day!

In times of distress, I find comfort in the company of others. However, it is important to clarify what I mean by this. I don’t need a big crowd or noise to fill the space; I need a few friends who respect it. Sometimes, it is time to talk and other times, it is time to be silent. 

After my husband’s passing, I had a dear friend staying at my house with me for a while. I would awaken very early in the morning. I found a need to get up and sit in another room. This was my time with God. These were very personal times for me, but my friend's presence brought comfort. 

My friend respected my boundaries and would enter the room quietly. A simple wave or nod was all the communication we needed for him to recognize it was a quiet time. Often, he would step into the other room and quietly complete his morning routine. 

As I prayed for strength to endure my pain, my tears would fall, and God sat vigil with me. Tears are forming as I recall and share this story, but God’s presence again surrounds me as I offer myself to God’s will. 

Loving Lord, Maker of all things! Thank you for answering our calls for love and strength. Your presence brings us comfort. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: When I ask for help, God will renew my strength.

Speak! God is Listening! Pastor Liz