March 14-20
Hymn Verse: GOD’S PRESENCE
I bind unto myself today
the power of God to hold and lead,
God’s eye to watch, God’s might to stay,
God’s ear to hearken to my need,
the wisdom of my God to teach,
God’s hand to guide, God’s shield to ward,
the word of God to give me speech,
God’s heavenly host to be my guard.
Scripture: Isaiah 50:4-8a
The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue,
to know the word that sustains the weary.
He wakens me morning by morning,
wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.
The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears;
I have not been rebellious,
I have not turned away.
I offered my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard;
I did not hide my face
from mocking and spitting.
Because the Sovereign Lord helps me,
I will not be disgraced.
Therefore have I set my face like flint,
and I know I will not be put to shame.
He who vindicates me is near.
Practices
PRAY: Meditative prayer
Use meditation as a time to become aware of God’s presence. Find a quiet spot, set a timer for five minutes (or more), close your eyes, and pay attention to your breath. Remember that God is as close to you as the air in your lungs. When your thoughts wander, just gently draw them back to your breath.
FAST: from self-criticism
If God cares so much for you, well, how dare you value yourself as anything less than a beloved child of God? This week, whenever your inner critics clear their voices, remind them that you are God-protected and God-loved, and if they don’t have anything helpful to say, then they can frankly go stuff it.
GIVE: a talent
As you fast from self-criticism, make room to name the things that you’re really good at. Find a way to share it with the world in a way that contributes to justice, peace, and/or delight.