Day 26 – December 22
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. [Numbers 6:24-26 ESV]
Peace. This word seems foreign in today’s world of constant turmoil and strife. Indeed, Scripture teaches that there is no peace for the wicked, likening them to a troubled sea tossing to and fro. We live in a world that seeks to strip us of our identity in Christ, pull us from God’s presence, and keep us at war within ourselves. Instead, let us reflect on this ancient prayer specifically taught to Moses by God.
The LORD bless you and keep you – is personal and specific. Like a shepherd knows and protects his sheep.
the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you – is like the sun shining on the face of the earth. We sit basking in His presence and grace.
the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace – is like a proud father smiling at his child. His reassuring love fills us with peace.
It may feel like we are surrounded by chaos but through His blessing, God is providing us with His protection, presence and peace.
Father, Your promise of grace and peace echo throughout Scripture but this ancient priestly prayer reminds us that this has been Your design from the beginning. We are yours God. We belong to You and in a world that seems to be plunging into darkness, YOU will be our light. May we be filled with a peace that passes all understanding as we sit in Your presence today. Amen.
Written by: Pastor Jason Mecum