Advent Reflections

Let the heavens rain down the Just One,
And the earth bring forth a Savior.

Second Week of Advent - Thursday

December 9, 2004

I, the Lord your God,
Hold your right hand.
I say to you, "Fear not,
I will help you."

Isaiah 41: 13

Safe in His Care

God tries to show me in many ways how much he cares for me. When I read his Word in the scriptures, I find assurances on every page that he watches over me as a loving Father and keeps me safe in his care. When I worship in the assembly of the faithful, I am reminded of his powerful abiding presence among us. When I withdraw to a quiet place to pray, I sometimes sense his presence in the stillness and know that I am safe. If only my faith were deep enough that I could always be aware that he is with me. But when I leave his presence and return to my everyday affairs, I quickly forget him. And so I face the challenges of my life as though I were carrying my burdens alone.

We all have concerns that fill us with fear and anxiety. Most of us live continually at risk of financial insecurity. Some live in constant danger, and the fear of being harmed by others. We all face the possibility of unexpected accident or illness. And we all live in the shadow of death, the most fearsome calamity of all. But in the face of all our worries, the Lord God gives us his assurance that we are safe in his care. No matter how bad things get, he will take care of us. His comforting words come down to us through the ages - I am with you. Do not be afraid.

The Lord God does not always give me what I want, but he always gives me what I need. He does not always go along with my plans, but he always shows me the way that will lead to my good. When I come back to him in prayer, I find that he has been with me all along, holding my hand and carrying my load. And I see that in spite of all my fears, I am safe with him.

Lord God, you keep me in the safety of your loving protection. Give me the strength and courage to trust you always, and to follow you on the path to eternal life.