Scripture: Psalm 116:8
The writer of Psalm 116 is recovering from illness and is so grateful to God he asks, “What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me?”
Have you ever had somebody bail you out of a bad situation, and you have no idea how to repay that gift?
The Psalmist offered this song of thanksgiving and concluded the repayment would be devotion and faithfulness.
They promise to work together with God’s people in worship and service.
God has blessed me in so many ways.
I have a wonderful family who loves me more than I love myself.
I have a supportive church family.
I have had many meaningful jobs.
I, like the Psalmist, recovered from pretty severe illness and am in reasonably good health.
So, what shall I return to the Lord?
I have no riches to give, and the Lord does not need my riches anyway.
I can only give what the Psalmist recommends – devotion, faithfulness, and a desire to work with all God’s people to bring about God’s dream – for all the people of the Earth to know of His goodness and mercy.
Prayer: Lord, so often, I think of sacrifice as a negative thing. Help me see any sacrifice I make to further your kingdom is an expression of thankfulness to you for all my many blessings. Amen.
Chris Howell, Lynchburg, VA
A daily Lenten devotional reprinted with permission from The Society of St. Andrew to inspire help sharing nourishing food with neighbors in need.
Every $1 donated provides more than 40 servings to those in greatest need. A donation of $47 for the 47 days in Lent provides more than 1,880 servings.
What a way to celebrate the resurrection of hope and lift the cup of salvation for our hungry neighbors!
First Reflections 