The Daily: Tuesday April 30, 2024

Daily Lectionary Reading: Psalm 80; Isaiah 32:9-20 (NRSV, The Message); James 3:17-18 (NRSV, The Message)

My people will abide in a peaceful habitation,
in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places. Isaiah 32:9-20

The passage from Isaiah, on the surface, is speaking to a people in exile attempting to explain what they have experienced - destruction and a hoped for rebuilding. Exoterically, it promises a better time. And a better time did come.

Better times DO come. However, they don't last. At some point another set of harrowing circumstances will be faced. One of the goals, I believe, of our spiritual practice is to make our way to the place where, no matter our circumstances, we abide in peaceful habitation. When we are there, we are able to handle circumstances as they come, provide presence and support for those around us, and appropriately engage the marauders as they come.

Devotionals We Like

Center for Action and Contemplation Daily Meditation
United Church of Christ Daily Devotional
The Upper Room