Scripture Meditations

So for about a few years, I’ve been fascinated with the Desert Fathers. They are one of the earliest examples of Christian Monasticism. This is a prayer of St. Macarius, one of the Desert Fathers. It is a traditional Orthodox evening prayer that focuses on repentance, living virtuously and protection during sleep. Let this be your prayer as you rest tonight. God bless!               St. Macarius of Egypt                 Prayer of St. Macarius the Great to God the Father O Eternal God and King of all creation, Who hast granted me to arrive at this hour, forgive me the sins that I have committed today in thought, word and deed, and cleanse, O Lord, my humble soul from all defilement of flesh and spirit. And grant me, O Lord, to pass the sleep of this night in peace, that when I rise from my bed I may please Thy most holy Name all the days of my life and conquer my flesh and the fleshless foes that war with me....

  God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  — Psalm 46:1 Last week I was meditating on Psalm 46 during my personal devotion time. I was especially focused on the word refuge. This word appears at least 40 times in the book of Psalms in reference to God. It literally means safe place. In ancient Israel, there were specific cities of refuge that fugitives could flee to that would provide protection, until that fugitive could have a fair judgment. This is my own Prayer that focuses on God as my refuge. My Savior, I am overwhelmed by life itself. Lost in my own sins, regrets, cares of this world, and fears. Some days, my faith is at its strongest, the anchor that keeps me grounded. Other times, it’s like a sinking ship, and I’m struggling not to drown. Lord Jesus, You are my Refuge, my Safe Place. You are the Only Place I can run to when burdened and worn out. You are the Shelter from this evil world.  Help me to abide in You, Precious Savior. To dwell ...