I slept in this morning. I’ve just settled myself on the couch with a fire in the hearth (courtesy of my husband, Scott) and a cup of coffee warming my hands. (Yes, Scott also made the coffee. I know. I’m blessed.) My prayers began, as they always do, with my version of Luther’s Morning Prayer. I call it “my version” because I insert personal petitions as I include prayers for family members, myself, and others. 

It’s snowing heavily right now. Spring is officially upon us but, here in the Rockies, warmer temperatures are several months away. We are in the season of Lent and in the middle of a pandemic. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) dominates the news. Many of my activities continue even as we have been directed to isolate ourselves from others. Morning devotions are one of those activities.

My Scripture reading included this passage from 1 Peter 1:24-25: for “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever.” And this word is the good news that was preached to you. This passage has nothing to do with a pandemic — or does it? As we deal with the cancellation of many events, we feel like we are losing control of our lives. If that’s how you are feeling, then I suggest you pick up the Bible and read. We have never been in control of our lives, and I thank God for that truth! Our Lord has been and remains in control. I take comfort in these words Jesus spoke: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Let’s not look at our confinement — let’s look to the cross for what true separation was like for our Savior as He hung on the cross for our sins.

Let’s not look at the stock market and despair — let’s look to the empty grave and find joy in the treasure of heaven.

We’ve been asked to isolate ourselves from others for our safety and theirs. God assures us we are never separated from His love. Look up Romans 8:31-39. God’s love is an everlasting love!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie