God our StrengthGod is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1) Saturday, Fifth Week of Easter Almighty and ever-living God, give us new strength from the courage of Christ our refuge, and lead us each day until we join the saints in heaven to sing your praises that never end, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen Dear friends, God’s word is what we need to hear more than anything else. I invite you this day to take a moment and meditate on Psalm 46. It was written with God’s people Israel in mind, the descendants of Jacob. These words are for us also, because through faith in Jesus, we too have been adopted into Jacob’s family. When the world around us is shaken, we need to know where to find strength that is secure. Quiet your soul, be still, and know that God Is your God and your strength. Shhhh….. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea. Water roars and foams, and mountains shake at the surging waves. There is a river whose streams bring joy to the city of God, the holy place where the Most High lives. God is in that city. It cannot fall. God will help it at the break of dawn. Nations are in turmoil, and kingdoms topple. The earth melts at the sound of God’s voice. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Come, see the works of the LORD, the devastation he has brought to the earth. He puts an end to wars all over the earth. He breaks an archer’s bow. He cuts spears in two. He burns chariots. Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the nations. I rule the earth. The LORD of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. These words were originally written as a song to be sung. The tune has been lost in history, but the words provided inspiration for Martin Luther’s well-known hymn, “A Mighty Fortress”. If you would like to listen to a wonderful contemporary arrangement of this hymn which uses technology to create a virtual choir with people all around the world, click the link here–> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4EoLm3_luM A servant of the Lord, Pastor Langdon Reinke P.S. Hope you and your family are healthy and safe. We are in this together. We have help available if there are needs. Please let us know. |