The Upper Room Devotion for Monday, September 25, 2023, was written by Christine DeLong of Arizona.
Scripture
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—from where will my help come? 2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. 4 He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade at your right hand. 6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. 8 The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
Psalm 121:1-8 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
I had taken a road trip to Olympic national Park in Washgington State. It was beautiful, and the spring flowers were in bloom. I spent a day at the beach, where coastal clouds remained low, and I marveled at the powerful waves, tide pools, and the rocky beach. Then I headed inland to Hoh Rain Forest. As I waited in a line of cars to pay the entrance fee, I was surprised when I rolled forward. Through a clearing in the forest, I could see Mt. Olympus, covered in snow and standing majestically over the park.
It was amazing - I'd been in the park for more than 24 hours, yet this was the first time I'd been able to see the mountains. It made me think of God - not just because I was so grateful to be surrounded by God's amazing, beautiful world, but also because I realized God is like that mountain. God is always there. We're the ones moving about and, at times, losing sight of God. As clouds roll into our lives, it's easy to forget God is there. But God is steadfast and hasn't gone anywhere. When we remember to look we will find God is with us.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
Christine's reflection offers us a moment of clarity and instruction on how we can feel God's presence every day. Christine writes: "God is always there. We're the ones moving about and, at times, losing sight of God." I invite you to re-read Christine's reflection and challenge yourself to pause and enjoy God's presence.
Author's Prayer
Dear Lord, help us to remember that you are always near and watching over us. Even when we do not see you, we know you are with us. Amen.
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