DEVOTION

Are you okay? These are such simple words, but so meaningful, especially during these unsettling times. When things are not going as we planned and the world is so very messy, we need to keep our eyes on the one who created us.

I am reminded it is in the “messy moments” of our lives when the Lord gives us an opportunity to lean on him and see the power of his love, mercy, forgiveness, and grace. In our humanness, our tendencies are to be worried and fearful for the future, but if we keep our eyes on the Lord, we will not be shaken and we can be okay—we can even find the joy and blessings around us.

When I was a young teenager, I was driving home from my job late in the evening and was involved in a fender-bender type accident. I remember being rattled, shaking, and crying, and then calling my dad. I will never forget when I told him I had wrecked the car, he didn’t hesitate but immediately asked, “Are you okay?”

I was a bit surprised. His main concern, of course, was my condition, not what had happened to the car. I will never forget those words, “Are you okay?” When I said yes, he said, “Cars can be fixed. I just wanted to make sure you were not hurt.”

Our Heavenly Father loves us in the same way. He wants to make sure we are okay. He wants us to lean on him during all the messes we experience. Lean on his strength and love. No matter what is going on around us, God is our strength and wants to make sure we feel loved and protected.

In John 9:1-12, Jesus and his disciples were walking when they saw a blind beggar. He had been blind since he was born. The disciples asked Jesus, “Teacher, did this man sin? Or did his parents? Is that why he is blind?”

“No one sinned,” said Jesus. “This happened so that God’s work could be shown in his life.” That means God had a plan, right? God already knew what was going to happen next. God would heal the blind man, and he would be able to see.

God knows what happens next for us, too. So, let’s keep our eyes on the Lord. Let’s not be shaken and not try to figure it out ourselves, but let’s lean on him and be okay.

“God loves you for who you are, not what you do. Resting in the purpose God has for you brings peace. No matter how big the storm, God is bigger.” - Sheila Walsh

PRAYER

God says all we have to do to receive total peace is to stop and pray. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

God,

Thank you for guarding our hearts and minds with your peace. Thank you for being there for us and making sure we are okay. You are our strength. Continue to help us feel protected and loved. We love you.

In Jesus' name we pray,

Amen

Lori Bunyar

Pastor of Special Events

lbunyar@crossings.church