It’s Monday. The weekend hurried past. A late night return from a trip North by Northwest led to a late start on Saturday. Sunday morning was derailed with several complications. No nap was possible on Sunday afternoon. 

A day late in reading these words, however, proves timely. Here’s what God says to you and me as he said to his people who experienced his judgment many years ago:

1. Do not fear.
2. I have redeemed you.
3. I have called you by name.
4. You are mine. 

How should we respond? We should hold a simple prayer easily memorized in our hearts and minds: “I am yours. I belong to you.”

What does this make possible?

God knows all about us and loves us with everlasting love.

He redeems all he allows.

We are the objects of his compassionate love. 

We can live fearless and confident lives knowing he holds us in his hand. 

Nothing can separate us from his love. Rivers cannot. Fire cannot. Nothing can. (See Romans 8:31-39 for a longer list of powerful realities that cannot separate us from his loving care.)

Ah, Monday, bow to your Creator. 

Ah, Weariness, kneel to the LORD your God.

Ah, Responsibilities, know God’s guidance and provision. 

Since Jesus has risen and reigns, Sunday heralds joy and triumph for everything we will face in the week ahead. Let us live celebratory lives as God’s mercy and grace overflow our lives in service to everyone we meet. 

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I will live confidently.

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Our Father, you empower us to live confidently. You have done for us what we cannot do for ourselves. You know us by name. We belong to you. Amen.