Listen

I believe that the present suffering is nothing compared to the coming glory that is going to be revealed to us. The whole creation waits breathless with anticipation for the revelation of God’s sons and daughters. Creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice—it was the choice of the one who subjected it—but in the hope that the creation itself will be set free from slavery to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of God’s children.

Romans 8:18-21

Think

“…that the creation itself will be set free from slavery to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of God’s children.”

I think that after reading this text, we need to take a deep breath. This is a particularly heavy passage of scripture. But, in the midst of its weight, there is a tremendous amount of hope.

I have to be honest, I don’t like the idea of suffering for the glory of God. It really makes me uncomfortable, and I would rather push it aside. But many of us might know that there are times, in the midst of suffering, when God is all that we have.

Maybe in this season, you feel like you are hurting and there is no end in sight. Yet, even in the midst of this, we might find fleeting moments of rest, knowing that we are a child of God. And God is with us.

Jacob Kennedy

Question to Ponder:

When are times that you have been reminded that you are a child of God?

Pray

God, I love you and I am thankful to be one of your children.

In whatever space I may be, help me to be reminded that you are there.

In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Go

Receive now this shortened blessing of Saint Patrick, as sung by musician Steve Bell in his song, “The Lorica”:

“Be above me, as high as the noonday sun.

Be below me, the rock I set my feet upon.

Be beside me, the wind on my left and right.

Be behind me, oh circle me with your truth and light.”

Amen