From Now Until Easter - Slips, Trips and Falls

From Ash Wednesday until Easter, I will post from Lent and Easter devotionals offered online. Tonight's post features excerpts written by Rev. Tim Ehrhardt, currently serving as a Clinical Pastoral Education chaplain resident at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

*******************************************  

Our steps are made firm by the Lord, when he delights in our way; though we stumble, we shall not fall headlong, for the Lord holds us by the hand.

Psalm 37:23-24

It is inevitable that we will stumble and fall. The real issue is how we discern the divine in such situations. Our view of God matters. If we see God as primarily punitive, looking to put heavy loads on us and cause us to slip when we get out of line, then guilt and shame will likely dominate our thoughts. Yet, if we see God as gracious, merciful, kind, and good—all the time—thoughts of security and peace will likely be our default mode. 

The psalmist gives us a view of God as the One who delights in us, has us by the hand, has our backs when we stumble or mess up, and is our source of firm support in difficult times. This is a vision of God who willingly receives our confession, extends forgiveness, and provides what we need.

Prayer: 

God of all the ages, 

                 You have revealed Your grace in our Savior, Jesus Christ. As we wait patiently on Your mercies, strengthen our steps to live in Your justice, so that with our hands held firmly by You, we may hear and accomplish Your will, through Christ, who lights the way to life everlasting. Amen.