God, you are here
Stop.
Take a deep breath. As you breathe in say, “Draw me in.” As you breathe out say, “God, you are here.” Repeat as many times as you need.
Listen.
You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. – Psalm 139:5
Reflect.
It’s been a season of disconnections. Schedules are different. Social groups have shifted. Work and school have been disrupted. Sports and hobbies don’t happen like they did. The feeling of being lost, alone, or adrift plagues all of us. Those things that used to give shape to our lives don’t function in the same way. Even if we can appreciate lives less-scheduled and busy, we still might feel as if our lives are without form.
In my daily devotions last week, I read through Psalm 139. It’s a popular psalm because it focuses on God’s knowledge of us when we were barely even formed. Somehow, in all those beautiful reminders of God’s work creating me, I missed this one little verse. In verse 5, the Psalmist talks about God being in front of and behind us, surrounding us, so close as to have a hand on our shoulder.
I was particularly struck by this idea of God who hems us in. That verb can literally mean confine, a God who limits our space, a God who contains us and gives us boundaries. It’s not restrictive – it’s a good thing. The God who creates us also gives shape to our lives and direction to our days. God helps us know who, what, and when we are.
This idea gave me comfort. When I’m feeling lost, adrift, and disconnected, I can trust in a God who gives my life order, structure, and direction. God is always close to me, so close I can feel God’s own hand on me, and I am never alone. Praise God!
Pray.
God, when I feel lost, confused, and cut adrift, put your hand on my shoulder and remind me that you’re close. Help me see the boundaries and directions you have for my life. Grant me a sense of peace in this unsettled time as I continue to trust in you. Amen.
Carry On.
What people, places, or practices most help you God’s closeness? How can you connect with that this week?