The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. Psalm 23:1-3 (NRSV)

I remember a time in grade school when a buddy and I were walking downstream a creek toward a swimming hole. The creek normally ran shallow and the swimming hole was about 5 feet deep or so. However, it had rained the night before and the current was moving quickly. When we got to the swimming area, the water swept both of us off our feet. We could both swim, but the power and speed of the current not only surprised us but carried us quickly past the bank and showed no signs of slowing down. Fortunately, my friend was able to reach out and grab hold of a tree root and I grabbed his hand. From there, we made onto the bank to safety. I will never forget the surprising power of rushing water. Nor will I forget the hand that reached out and offered me a lifeline. 

Our life is often like a rushing river: fast, breathtaking, and sometimes dangerous. I have found I need God’s hand to reach out and pull me to safety, calm waters, and cool grass.

Prayer: Lord, help me this day to lie down in the cool grass of your presence. Guide me to your peaceful waters. Calm me that I may drink deeply of your peace, love, and life. Amen.

May the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you!

Pastor Rick