COFFEE ON THE DOCK

The earth whirls along, sunlight advancing across its face. As it does darkness flees light’s approach. God is already voicing commands into this day. His Word precedes every moment and then holds it in place as it appears. Still, He is not finished. As each split second unfolds in His mighty grasp, He proclaims His will into it and pronounces His blessing upon it. He invites each of us to hear His Voice and then provides unique grace to obey. This is the day the Lord has made. Good morning Lord, this day is Yours already and I am rejoicing to be in it. All is well. I am thankful to be Yours. Word of God Speak!

A stroll down Main Street in the Magic Kingdom seems convincing enough, but those charming shops and homes above are nothing but an imaginative veneer. Much of what we see in life is propped up with facades and imaginations. We are architects of our own fantasies. Then truth comes rolling in like a rhino in a china store. Reality is a game-changer. Lord of Truth, I have many delicate things balanced on flimsy shelves. You only knock down to build up; You push to the side that which is of no lasting value. While there is pain in the moment, I welcome Your truth.

Though everything in this world can be shaken, God’s unfailing love never is; it is not of this world nor bound by its frailties. Truth administered in His limitless love is the only thing that can uncover what is actually wrong with me and the only thing that can cure my wrongdoing. Like the shepherd who chases down his wandering lamb, God’s passion for His people is relentless in its pursuit. Lord of All Mercies, thank You for appointing your love to heal my brokenness and empower my actions. In Your hands I will pass through every tempest, traverse every dessert and scale every mountain in confident peace as I walk in the shadow of Your unfailing love.  

Material things and personal benefits are easily taken for granted. I know this because when something to which I am accustomed is no longer is available, I always feel surprised and disappointed. Presumption, it seems, is a constant nemesis and a headlong path to exaggerated self-importance. God’s answer? Shifting sand, inconstant circumstances, tidal changes, bizarre weather; nothing in this world endures exactly the way it is right now. Lord, upon You the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. You alone are the forever constant. Thank You for the reminders.

One of life’s greatest gifts is a reassuring hand on the shoulder. It is almost miraculous how in the blink of an eye a simple gesture can wipe away concealed pain or encourage a step of faith. We attempt to burn away the fog of sorrow with our words, but quiet presence is a wonderworking cure. How often have I missed the opportunity to offer something so valuable, yet easy to give? Father, help me today to be Your hand extended to someone’s moment of need. Thank You for Your constant, gentle touch. Let me be your hand extended to someone’s need. 

I come to crossroads of decision daily. Wisdom is always there like a friendly farmer at a roadside produce stand; easily seen if you look, lots of fruit simply waiting to be chosen and the trained eye and counsel of the one who personally nurtured it from seed to table.  I want to stop and browse, but with so much to do in a rush I drive forward, often to my own harm. Life’s choices require God’s input. Substituting my own judgment for that of the Lord of Ages is foolhardy. Father of All Wisdom, forgive my impertinent haste. Help me to take the time to seek Your Face and choose wisely. Thank You for Your constant Presence and unmatched wisdom offered freely to those who seek it.