Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter
When I hear the phrase ‘divine providence,’ I assume it means that some special, unlikely blessing allowed someone to have everything they needed. This is an unfortunate way of thinking. Doesn’t God provide for us on a daily, or even minute-by-minute basis? Who gives us the air we breathe? God alone, unless you’re a scuba diver! Today’s psalm is a beautiful reflection on God’s generosity, and how it is common. Indeed, the whole nation of Israel is praising God for the experience of that saving power.
Rain refreshes the land and makes it productive. What cleansing, life-giving rain is the Spirit sending into your life? What needy people are benefiting from the goodness that God has given to you? When I think about this, I try and remember my kids and other people who depend on me. We often forget how much we truly give to others for their benefit. The works of mercy we do in love and responsibility are still good works.
We all have different burdens to carry. Some were given to us against our will, and some we have heaped upon ourselves, whether on accident or on purpose. Whatever the case, God makes no distinction. Whether my burden is my own sin, the effects of another person’s sin, or just a responsibility, our Lord is here to bear it with me. It will not crush me or kill me. Day by day, in prayer we can remember God’s help, or ask for it, or praise God for the help we know we are receiving. Which prayer will you pray today? Let us worship our God, who has always helped us and saved us day by day.
-Chris Nieport