Thursday, March 14, 2019

Thursday of Lent 1



Thursday of Lent 1 – March 14, 2019 – Psalm 91:15
When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him.


The mention of terror or “threat” is reference to an attack by one’s enemies. Thus it is paired with “arrows.”  These two references to threats from war are arrayed alongside “pestilence” and “plague” (v. 6). Two references to mortal diseases that often reached epidemic proportions. “night…day,” at whatever time of day or night the threat may come, you will be kept safe. The time references are not specific to their respective phrases.  
Both the Introit and the Psalm of the day are drawn from the same psalm. The antiphon has the Lord speaking words of reassurance to us, that He shall be with us in trouble, and shall rescue us and show to us salvation. This is how the Lord treats those that love Him, those that make Him their Dwelling Place.
Jesus' work in you began at your baptism. Where you were connected to Christ. He gave His word and promise to restore and forgive. And then, He promises to be with you always for time and eternity. His hand is still upon you. Never will He let you go. He will mold and shape every circumstance of your life. To bring it into conformity with His good and perfect will.
Multiply Thy strength, O Lord, in the souls of Thy humble servants, that while we ever worship Thee in Thy holy temple, we may, together with Thy holy angels, rejoice in beholding Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, world without end. Amen[1].
Strengthen us, O Lord, by Your grace, that in Your might we may overcome all spiritual enemies, and with pure hearts serve You through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.[2]




[1]© 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood

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