September 13, 2018

The Land of the Living

September 13, 2018

DAILY READING

Psalm 116:1-9
This weekend’s reading: Genesis 12:1-9

FIELD NOTES

Every year, the change of the seasons always provokes thoughts about the circle of life and the redeeming nature of our God. It I easy to see the beauty in the beautiful things, but not so easy to see the beauty in death. At the end of each season, I find myself yearning for the next. I always see the beauty at the beginning of a new season, but as life becomes life and struggles become real, my heart longs for a change.
 
I love Verses 8 and 9 of this Psalm because the author is not afraid to mention the struggles they have been through. They acknowledge first that they have come near to death, that tears have flowed, and that there have been obstacles on the path. But in the same breath, the psalmist acknowledges the goodness of God. God’s mercy and compassion are ever flowing and lead us out of sorrow and death and into the land of the living.
 
Just as the seasons change from summer to fall, and from winter to spring, God is constantly resurrecting and giving us new life. God is constantly showing us that sometimes things have to die to make room for new and beautiful things. Regardless of our circumstances, may we walk forward into the land of the living, with our eyes fixed on our Savior and Redeemer.

QUESTIONS FROM THE FIELD

  • Do you feel like you are walking with the Lord in the land of the living? Why or why not?
  • How have you felt God’s presence in your struggles?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

  • What is your favorite season and why?
  • How do you see God in living things?

PRAYER

God of life and love, we know that we can come to your when our hearts are troubled and you will show us mercy and compassion. Thank you for loving us with an everlasting love and leading us into the land of the living. We seek to walk with you all of our days. Amen.