We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 8, 2018.
Prayer: Thank you for saving us from our distress by your love. Amen Reading: Psalm 107: 1-3, 17-22 (Click to read text) Stop and GROW: After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. QUESTION 1: What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text? QUESTION 2: What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story? QUESTION 3: What stories or memories does this text stir in me? QUESTION 4: What is God up to in this text? Reflection: There was a time when it was thought illness was a judgement for sin. Jesus rejects this interpretation, but still, verses 17-22 of Psalm 107 reflect that ancient belief. Now, even though we no longer connect illness with personal sin, we can still learn from this Psalm that in times of trouble we can cry out to the LORD. How encouraging that is! I recently visited a church where during Communion they were having a "Healing Service". Curious what this may look like, I watched closely. About a half dozen members stood along the side aisles to pray with those who stopped on their way back to their seats. Hands were held, eyes closed, words whispered, hugs shared. Over and over it happened and while I did not see any healing miracles on the outside, inside there was Love saving another from distress and it was very encouraging. Turn to God and He will touch us with His healing and deliver us from our afflictions. Then we can rejoice and tell of His grace to others who may be ready to listen. How encouraging that would be! -- Ruth Gates
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