With You

WITH YOU

Wherever you are, remember you are in God’s loving presence. Close your eyes to dismiss any distractions. Open your hands as a way of doing with your body what you long for your heart and soul to do. Breathe in deeply and out slowly to relax your mind and your heart.

a prayer to open

Open me to your love, Lord.

In your great mercy, open me to your love.

But as for you, Israel my servant,

Jacob my chosen one,

descended from Abraham my friend,

I have called you back from the ends of the earth,

saying, “You are my servant.”

For I have chosen you

and will not throw you away.

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.

Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you.

I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

See, all your angry enemies lie there,

confused and humiliated. . . .

You will look in vain

for those who tried to conquer you.

Those who attack you

will come to nothing.

For I hold you by your right hand—

I, the LORD your God.

And I say to you,

“Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you. . . .

I am the LORD, your Redeemer.

I am the Holy One of Israel.”

Lectio Divina #1

Read today’s passage slowly and out loud. Pay attention to the word or phrase that stands out to you.

• What do you sense God is saying to you through that word or phrase? Take a minute to listen.

Lectio Divina #2

Read today’s passage a second time, again slowly and out loud. Listen for what invitation God may be extending to you through the word or phrase you identified.

• How does the word or phrase apply to your life right now? Take a minute to listen.

Lectio Divina #3

Read today’s passage for a third time, and then enter into a conversation with God. Remember that you are in his loving presence. Present your questions, concerns, resistance, and repentance.

• What does God want you to remember in the midst of fear?
• What particular fear is he inviting you to release?

Loving God, thank you for pouring out your love to me and for me and in me.

Thank you for loving me. I am yours. Amen and amen.