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Lenten Devotionals 5: March 23rd

Scripture …

Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing.  Listen to my cry for help, my king, my God; for to you I pray.  In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice in the morning, I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.  But I, by your great mercy, will come into your house …

  • Psalms 5:1-3, 7a (NIV)

Reflection …

Early each morning – sometimes too early – the cat scratches on the closed bedroom door.  And it doesn’t give up until someone responds.  It was fed yesterday but reminds it’s owners that today is another day and there are new needs.  It doesn’t seem to be aware of its owner’s commitment to its care. 

The persistence of this cat puts me to shame.  How often do I begin my mornings ‘scratching’ at heaven’s door with my needs and concerns?  Do I, with the determination of that cat – ‘lay my requests before’ the Lord, my king and my God?

Unlike the cat, I know or should remember that because of the Lord’s great mercy (his steadfast, faithful love), I am certain that – YES – he hears my voice, that I should start my day by placing my needs before Him in prayer, and that I can wait in patience, confident that he welcomes my ‘scratching’ and will answer my needs. 

Prayer … 

Great is your faithfulness, O God my Father; morning by morning new mercies I see.  Thank you for your forever faithfulness that welcomes me into your presence each morning, where I am assured that you know my needs before I ask.  Teach me to wait, expecting the unexpected new mercies you provide daily.

In Jesus’ name, I ask … Amen