[Dailydevo] Daily Devotion Wednesday July 5, 2006

[bludwig at zlc-aa.org]

Daily Devotions Wednesday July 5, 2006

This week’s devotions are written by Pastor Barry Ludwig.  In the ancient
world, looking upon the face of another was an act of great intimacy; reason
enough to cover the faces of women from non-household men. It was also an
act of parity; reason enough why the commoner was not allowed to look
directly into the eye of a king.  It was an act of power which is why the
Old Testament  warned that to look upon the face of God would result in
death. Let’s think about faces this week.

 

Psalm 27:8 (RSV)

Thou hast said, "Seek ye my face." My heart says to thee, "Thy face, LORD,
do I seek."  

 

 Some years ago, a pastor who was working on an advanced theology degree,
worked part time with me in parish ministry. I can still recall her standing
in my doorway one morning and asking, “How are you doing Barry?” to which I
replied, “Great, thanks for asking.” After a pause she said slowly, “How are
you really doing?”  Since I usually speak my mind, I was a little irritated
at her response, “Fine, really!” I said in what must have been a slightly
annoyed tone of voice. After some thought it occurred to me that this was
not a matter of questioning the veracity of my response, but her way of
caring about my well-being and letting me know that I did not need to put on
a “happy face” for her. I felt a bit guilty about my tone.

 

God does not need for us to put on a happy face, but wants us to seek his
face. God desires us to come close and allow intimacy and deep-caring to
take place between the Creator and the created; between the Redeemer and the
redeemed.  God deeply cares about your well-being. Take the time to seek out
His face today.


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