Growing up, I heard this blessing spoken by the pastor
at the end of every church service. Even as a child, the words felt special.
I no longer attend traditional services, opting for
contemporary worship and music. 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, the ability to pay our bills, or having awesome
careers. It includes being in relationship with him in order to not to feel
spiritual hunger or thirst.
.
. . and keep you:
The idea of “keep you” is divine
protection—spiritual protection. He keeps us safe. There are unseen forces in
the world who will do everything they can to stop us from living happy lives
and fulfilling God’s purpose.
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. And we will mess up!
the
Lord lift up His countenance upon you
This means . . . may the Lord look upon you with
approval. We want the Lord 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? Jesus can give the kind of peace that passes all
understanding.
Having this blessing said over me gives me a sense
of comfort, warmth, and peace. I’ve also discovered that by slightly changing
the words, I can also say them as a prayer.
The
Lord bless me and keep me: the Lord make his face shine upon me and be gracious
to me; the Lord lift up his countenance upon me and give me peace.
Amen!
What
does this blessing say to you? Do you feel comfortable inserting your own name
into that Scripture?
Dawn
Dawn, I too recall this benediction....tells us God's forgiving and loving grace, which we receive only by asking Him. :) Very soothing and encouraging.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Diane - both soothing and encouraging. :-D
DeleteThank you Dawn for slowing down the pace of this beautiful blessing for a closer look.
ReplyDeleteCathy, thanks for visiting! I'm glad you enjoyed the post. :-D
Delete