Morning Devotional 060122 Pause, Breathe, Pray

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

June 1, 2022

Read Mark 1:29-39

29 After leaving the synagogue, Jesus, James, and John went home with Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed, sick with a fever, and they told Jesus about her at once. 31 He went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she served them. 32 That evening, at sunset, people brought to Jesus those who were sick or demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered near the door. 34 He healed many who were sick with all kinds of diseases, and he threw out many demons. But he didn’t let the demons speak, because they recognized him. 35 Early in the morning, well before sunrise, Jesus rose and went to a deserted place where he could be alone in prayer. 36 Simon and those with him tracked him down. 37 When they found him, they told him, “Everyone’s looking for you!” 38 He replied, “Let’s head in the other direction, to the nearby villages, so that I can preach there too. That’s why I’ve come.” 39 He traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and throwing out demons.

Good Morning, Take time to pray!

Today is June 1, 2022! This afternoon I am celebrating my upcoming retirement from teaching and in just less than a month I will be moving to a new parish to share the Word as called by God. As I got up this morning, I had a brief moment of panic when I considered all that is about to change and how much I have to do.

Before the panic got a stronghold on me, I began my daily time of morning prayer and meditation. As I began, a sense of peace enveloped me. God reminded me that yes this month will contain much upheaval, but he will be with me every step of the way. Regardless of how much I have to do, I will protect my special time each morning because this is where I find the love and strength to take on the day’s challenges.

In our times of greatest need, we must never abandon our Holy Habits. Jesus showed us throughout His walk on the earth that time of prayer provides the respite needed for a weary soul. Even when His time was limited and so many souls were waiting to be saved, Jesus found quiet places to talk and listen to God.

Loving and Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. O Lord, sometimes we think that we are too busy to pray. Help us learn that in prayer we find Your strength. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Today I will pause to accept the peace God offers.

Pause and Pray! Pastor Liz