A Daily Devotion for Friday, August 14

Isaiah 61:1-3

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,

because the LORD has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim freedom for the captives

and release from darkness for the prisoners,

to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor

and the day of vengeance of our God,

to comfort all who mourn,

and provide for those who grieve in Zion—

to bestow on them a crown of beauty

instead of ashes,

the oil of joy

instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise

instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness,

a planting of the LORD

for the display of his splendor.

Hebrews 4:16

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

This morning I hardly know which perspective to take with these scripture readings. Am I one of those people blessed and equipped by God to provide help and comfort to others, or am I a hurting human, in need of comfort and reassurance? I feel like both. I am thinking God has me exactly where I am supposed to be today. It may be that my comfort may come from being a comfort to others. What can I do today, where can I go, to provide relief to someone who needs God’s love?

Holy Lord, I wish I could know more of what I am meant to be and do. I have all that I need, but still I worry. There are worries I need to turn over to you. Lead me to opportunities to show your love to those in need. This will help me to put my own concerns in perspective and to remember your love for each and every part of your creation. Amen

Becky, transforming