Lamentations 3:22-33 (NRSV)
Read Lamentations 3:22-33 on biblegateway.com
Verse 22The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; Verse 23they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Verse 24"The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." Verse 25The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. Verse 26It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Verse 27It is good for one to bear the yoke in youth, Verse 28to sit alone in silence when the Lord has imposed it, Verse 29to put one's mouth to the dust (there may yet be hope), Verse 30to give one's cheek to the smiter, and be filled with insults. Verse 31For the Lord will not reject forever. Verse 32Although he causes grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; Verse 33for he does not willingly afflict or grieve anyone.
Devotion
Today we begin the final days of lead up to the ELCA National Youth Gathering in Houston, Texas, June 27- July 1. Maybe your community, like ours, is sending young people. I first attended such a youth gathering in Detroit in 2015. When I walked into worship for the first time, I couldn't help thinking in my own words "This changes everything"—surrounded by 30,000 strong, laughing and praying individuals, seeking God together. What faith experiences have changed you, in Jesus name? What moments have led you to confess, like the psalmist "The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him." I invite you to spend some time this week intentionally praying for the Gathering, the attendees and support teams. I am also excited this week to share with you some devotions from students from my congregation.
Prayer
Faithful God, your grace changes everything. Our lives begin and end in your loving care and grace. Inspire the hearts and minds of the next generation gathering in Houston that they may live into their baptism, and trust that your love and notice is not earned, but all gift. In Jesus name. Amen.