The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,[a]
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness. (Lam. 3:22-23)
How do you respond to the unexpected interruptions in your routine? Perhaps it depends. A call from a friend who is from out of town may be a welcomed break. Quickly, you find a way to re-arrange your schedule in order to meet. The brief stress in altering plans is countered by the benefit of engaging with a friend.
However, when unpredictability becomes the norm, the interruption is no longer perceived as a respite. Illness, job loss, and divorce are situations that can create days in which you feel blindsided by the force of changing winds. Doctors appointments, tracking meds, caring for your family, managing your moods as well as helping your children process theirs., negotiating with bill collectors..…, It takes every ounce of energy to move forward with every detail of the day. There are seasons in our lives when these days, which beat to no rhythm in particular, seem to continue day after day. For some, it’s a matter of weeks. For others- months or even years.
During this season, how easy it can be to be vulnerable to our own sinful choices: snapping at another family member, impatience with medical staff, not giving your best to your spouse…Yet, in the midst of the challenges, we are offered the compassions of our merciful God. This was the hope clung to by the writer of Lamentations. He writes these words as he is in the midst of a life of despair, exhaustion and fear. At the beginning of each day, when the alarm goes off and the uncertainty of a new day greets you, the Lord has already bestowed you with the mercies to get through another day. Receive them…. and let them transform you.
What is the rhythm of your life like right now? Erratic? Steady?
How do you feel knowing that you are granted God’s mercies everyday?
Dear Lord,
We receive the promise given to us in your Word. We claim your mercies. The same mercies offered to those who have struggled before us. You know our struggles, our physical and emotional abilities and our temptations. We thank you for your unending mercies and grace which intersect the often unpredictable rhythm of our lives. .
exploring sacred connections with God and each otherr
Oh, how I needed to read this today, Stephanie. Thank you. Also reminds me of the song, As Sure As the Sun by Ellie Holcomb. She has a line in her song: His mercy will not end.
It’s a good good reminder every day. And to see how compassionate He really is when you feel you’re falling apart in every way. Thank you for the prayer at the bottom, too. ☺️