A Beloved Blessing

"The Lord bless you and keep you: the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace." (Num. 6: 24-26 NKJV)

Growing up, I heard this blessing spoken by the pastor at the end of every church service. Even as a child, there was something about the words that felt special.

Opting for contemporary worship and music, I no longer attend traditional services. Hearing this blessing is probably the one thing I miss . . .

Why? How could so few words make me feel so wrapped up in God’s love?

The Lord bless you . . .

All good things come from God. But this means more than physical blessings and the ability to pay our bills. It includes being in a strong enough relationship with Him that we're not feeling spiritual hunger or thirst.

. . . and keep you:

The idea of "keep you" is divine protection - spiritual protection. He keeps us safe. And He promises us eternal life.

the Lord make his face shine upon you

Imagine it. Doesn’t that bring the image of warmth and caring? Awareness of God's presence brings comfort to the faithful.

and be gracious to you;

Our God is merciful and compassionate. He desires to forgive us when we mess up.

the Lord lift up His countenance upon you

This means . . . may the Lord look upon you with approval. We want Him to be pleased with how we’re using our talents, opportunities and lives.

. . . and give you peace.

In this crazy, hectic, stressful world, who doesn’t want and need assurance and peace? Jesus can give the kind of peace that passes all understanding.


So dear friends, let me send these words to you . . .

The Lord bless you and keep you: the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Amen!

Dawn